JOHN SHIRK – In the Year to Shine, today’s Vital Step to a Radiant Faith is to be in awe of God.

Many Bible characters were filled with awe in God’s presence.

When Ezekiel saw the glory of the LORD, he fell facedown.

When Moses saw the glory of the LORD at the burning bush, he hid his face.

When Isaiah saw the glory of the LORD, he said, “Woe is me. I am ruined, for I am a man of unclean lips.” These prophets and more were raised up by God to serve their nation in productive ways.

To be in awe of God is to recognize that we are in the Presence of someone greater than ourselves. We have reverence for His name, regard for His power, and respect for His authority. We may feel unworthy in His holy presence, but we are not unloved in His amazing grace. Being in awe of God is being in a place of worship.

Habakkuk 3:2 says, “LORD, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, LORD.”

Being in Awe of God is a vital step to a radiant faith that makes a difference in our world.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Relationship-Building Principle comes from Acts 2:43.

“Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.”

One of the characteristics of a dynamic church is that the believers worship God with reverence and awe.

We are not meant to just go through the motions of worship, but to offer God a heart of worship.

The miracle of God’s love and the wonders of His grace so captivate us with a sense of gratitude that our joy overflows in praise.

When we consider the depths of pain that Jesus endured for the sake of offering us the riches of His kingdom, how could we not be moved? Hebrews 12:28 says, “Since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”

Living in awe and wonder of God’s grace is a vital relationship-building principle to take to heart in the Year of Connection.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com