The Joy of Glory

Today’s devotional is authored by SVCC intern Allison Davis

Isaiah 63:7
I will recount the steadfast love of the Lord,
the praises of the Lord,
according to all that the Lord has granted us,
and the great goodness to the house of Israel
that he has granted them according to his compassion,
according to the abundance of his steadfast love.

Reflection
According to Merriam-Webster, to “recount” means “to relate in detail” or “narrate.” I believe we’ve errored by taking the word and giving it the meaning of “remember.” The ESV’s header in my Bible over Isaiah 63:7 even reads: The Lord’s Mercy Remembered.

It is wonderful to remember God’s goodness and to remember it often. Holy Scripture often calls us to remember! We must not neglect, though, the practice of speaking, of “relating in detail” what God has done for us. The NIV renders this verse:

I will tell of the kindnesses of the Lord,
the deeds for which he is to be praised,
according to all the Lord has done for us…

In our college women’s Bible study last semester, we often discussed how several Psalms tell readers to practice corporate thanksgiving—thanking God not just in your own heart, but speaking it aloud in the presence of others! Psalm 22:22 says,

I will tell of your name to my brothers;
in the midst of the congregation I will praise you

Why should we share our praises with our brothers and sisters in Christ? (Besides the obvious reason that we are commanded to, of course.) For one, telling struggling brothers and sisters of how the Lord has blessed you reminds them of what kind of God he is—a good God! Your praises encourage those who are in need of hope. Has someone’s testimony of God’s faithfulness encouraged you before?

Secondly, praising God publicly glorifies Him!! Why should we keep such praise to ourselves?

I can hear Jonathan’s often repeated refrain in my head now—“when Christ is glorified, Paul’s joy is magnified.” When the church praises God together, we are filled with joy! Invite a friend into your joy by sharing with them what Christ has done for you.

I urge you, brothers and sisters, to recount the steadfast love of the Lord today. Perhaps you are in a season where you do not feel as though you are seeing “great goodness.” Ask the Lord to show you how he is loving you and being faithful to you. Name all the things you are thankful for. Then, tell someone!

*All previous devotionals may be found at www.thejoyofglory.com
*The complete SVCC Lenten reading guide is available here.