When Glory Fades
Hello Bride of Christ,
Is the God you worship shaped by your perception, or does your perception come under the shaping influence of God? Perception is not passive—it’s an active process involving the body, brain, and mind as they interpret sensory input, focus attention, organize thoughts, and form awareness. When we fail to surrender our perceptions to God, we risk building beliefs on incomplete and distorted evidence.
As we enter Book 3 of the Psalms (Psalms 73–89), we witness a profound spiritual crisis. God's people wrestle with what they see, feel, and fear. The glory of God—once radiant in the temple, the land, and the strength of the kingdom—now appears to fade amid the rise of foreign powers like Babylon and Assyria. These psalms reflect both individual cries (Psalms 73 and 88) and corporate lament (Psalms 74 and 89), voices filled with disorientation and longing. In the face of fading glory, they bring their broken perceptions before the Lord, pleading for reassurance, restoration, and a renewed vision of His presence.
We, too, are invited into that sacred process. Like them, we must learn to seek the Glory Holder—not anchoring our faith in what we perceive, but in who He has revealed Himself to be. Even when our circumstances contradict His promises, we cling to His Word, trusting He is faithful.
From these psalms emerge rich spiritual lessons still relevant today. Psalm 73:17 shows us that true understanding begins when we enter the sanctuary of God—when we intentionally shift from our limited perspective to His eternal one. In verse 28, the psalmist declares the goodness of drawing near to God, finding trust and confidence that leads to a bold declaration of His works. Psalm 75:7 reminds us that God alone is Judge; He humbles and exalts according to His perfect wisdom. Psalm 76:11 calls us to respond in reverence by keeping our vows and honoring Him with what we bring. In Psalm 77:1, we hear the cry of a heart unafraid to be honest with God, and in verse 11, we’re reminded to anchor our hope by remembering His faithful works of the past.
Psalm 84:5–7 paints a picture of pilgrimage—a sacred journey through valleys of weeping that transforms into springs of blessing for those who set their hearts on God. And in Psalm 86:11, we hear a prayer for teachability: “Unite my heart to fear Your name.” This is the posture God honors—a heart surrendered, humble, and willing to be led.
Bride of Christ, Book 3 of the Psalms, invites us to lay down our incomplete perceptions and take up the unshakable truth of who God is. Even when His glory seems hidden, He remains present. Even when we don't understand, He continues to lead. Let us follow in the footsteps of these ancient voices and trust the One who holds glory, even when it fades from view.
June Journal Prompts
The following prompts are designed to help you slow down, reflect deeply, and meet God in the sacred space between sorrow and hope. Throughout June, you are invited to explore the emotional and spiritual tension of living in a world where God’s glory is real but not always visible, and where grief and grace often coexist. These prompts aren’t one-time reflections. Return to them throughout the month. Let your responses grow. Use them as launching points for prayer, conversations with a trusted friend, or deeper study.
Living in the Tension of Glory and Grief
Where do I sense the fading of God's visible glory in my life, community, or the world?
How can I hold space for both lament and hope—trusting that God remains present even when His glory seems hidden?
Entering the Sanctuary (Psalm 73:17)
What happens in my heart and mind when I take time to “enter the sanctuary”—whether through worship, prayer, or stillness before God?
How can I create more consistent space to hear God's voice above my own interpretations?
Remaining Teachable (Psalm 86:11)
What is one area where I need God to unite my heart—to remove double-mindedness or spiritual distraction?
How can I posture myself to be more teachable this month?
