WHEN MAN TAKES GOD'S GLORY

WHEN MAN TAKES GOD'S GLORY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 12:21-23

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 42:8, Daniel 4:30-37, Romans 1:21, Proverbs 16:18, 1 Corinthians 1:29-31

INTRODUCTION:
One of the greatest dangers in the Christian life and ministry is the subtle temptation to take credit for what only God could have done. The craving for recognition and applause often leads individuals to step into a space reserved for God alone—His glory. When man fails to acknowledge God as the source, sustainer, and accomplisher, pride sets in, and God’s judgement is not far off.

Throughout Scripture, we see God fiercely protective of His glory. He declares in Isaiah 42:8, “I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another...” God’s glory is His divine signature on the affairs of men. Whenever it is tampered with, the consequences are grievous and humbling.

This message is a solemn call to humility, brokenness, and awareness that we are but vessels. Every miracle, success, or breakthrough in our lives should point back to the glory of God.

1. GOD WILL NOT SHARE HIS GLORY WITH ANY MAN
God makes it clear throughout Scripture that His glory is not negotiable or transferable.

a) God's declaration is final (Isaiah 42:8): The Lord has set a boundary—His glory belongs to Him alone. Any attempt to cross that line invites divine displeasure.

b) He alone deserves all praise (Psalm 115:1): The Psalmist reminds us that all glory is due to God's name because of His mercy and truth.

c) Man is only a vessel (2 Corinthians 4:7): We carry this treasure in earthen vessels to show that the power belongs to God, not us.

d) Attempting to touch His glory is rebellion (Isaiah 48:11): God will not allow His name to be polluted by man's pride.

Biblical Example: King Herod in Acts 12:21–23 took glory to himself when people said he spoke as a god. He was immediately struck by an angel and died. God will not share His glory.

2. PRIDE MAKES MEN FORGET GOD'S ROLE IN THEIR SUCCESS
Pride blinds us to the source of our blessings and makes us feel self-made.

a) Pride exalts self above God (Proverbs 16:18): A proud heart elevates human effort and minimises divine influence, leading to destruction.

b) Self-praise is self-deception (Romans 12:3): No man should think more highly of himself than he ought.

c) Success without thanksgiving is dangerous (Romans 1:21): When men knew God but glorified Him not, they became vain in their imaginations.

d) Humility attracts God's presence (James 4:6): God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.

Biblical Example: Nebuchadnezzar said, “Is not this great Babylon that I have built?” (Daniel 4:30). Immediately, he was humbled by God and driven into the wilderness until he acknowledged the Most High.

3. TAKING GOD’S GLORY OPENS THE DOOR TO JUDGEMENT
The judgement of God often follows when a man refuses to honour the Lord.

a) Divine judgement can be swift (Acts 12:23): Herod was struck immediately because he didn’t give God glory.

b) God sees the intent of the heart (1 Samuel 16:7): Even silent pride can attract divine response.

c) It interrupts divine purpose (Isaiah 14:12-15): Lucifer fell because he sought God's throne and glory.

d) The fall of the proud is total (Proverbs 18:12): Before destruction, the heart of man is haughty.

Biblical Example: Lucifer, once an anointed cherub, sought God's glory and was cast down (Isaiah 14). Pride turned an angel into Satan.

4. HUMILITY PRESERVES THE BLESSINGS OF GOD
Humility redirects glory to God and allows us to retain divine favour.

a) Humble people acknowledge God's help (1 Corinthians 15:10): Paul declared, “By the grace of God I am what I am.”

b) Humility is the pathway to greatness (Matthew 23:12): Whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.

c) God delights in a contrite spirit (Isaiah 66:2): God dwells with the humble and broken in spirit.

d) Giving God glory secures our lifting (1 Peter 5:6): Humble yourselves under God's mighty hand, and He will lift you up.

Biblical Example: Joseph always gave glory to God, even in Pharaoh’s court (Genesis 41:16). He said, “It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.”

5. WAYS TO GIVE GLORY TO GOD CONTINUALLY
Giving glory must be intentional and habitual in the believer’s life.

a) Acknowledge God in every achievement (Proverbs 3:5-6): Honour Him in all your ways, and He will direct your path.

b) Testify of His works publicly (Psalm 105:1-2): Make known His deeds among the people.

c) Worship from a sincere heart (John 4:23): True worship glorifies God in spirit and truth.

d) Serve without seeking attention (Matthew 6:1): Let your works be seen only by the Father who sees in secret.

Biblical Example: Jesus Himself glorified the Father in all He did (John 17:4). He lived to bring glory to the One who sent Him.

CONCLUSION:
The temptation to take God’s glory is ever present in ministry, business, or personal success. Yet the Word of God consistently warns us against this prideful act. When man takes the glory, he incurs the wrath of God, cuts off divine favour, and limits the flow of grace.

We are nothing without God. Every talent, opportunity, breakthrough, and victory we enjoy is by His mercy. Our duty is to always point the attention back to Him so that His name alone is exalted forever.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, deliver me from every prideful thought that seeks to take Your glory.
2. Father, may I never take credit for what only You could have done.
3. Lord, clothe me with the garment of humility daily.
4. I break the yoke of pride over my life in Jesus’ name.
5. Father, may my life continually glorify You.
6. Lord, purge my heart of hidden arrogance.
7. I receive grace to redirect all praise and honour to God always.
8. I will never end like Herod; I will always return the glory to God.
9. Let my testimony always point others to Jesus.
10. O Lord, be glorified in my life, family, and ministry always.

GOD'S WORD FOR YOU TODAY:
1. You will not be brought low by the sin of pride.
2. God will always be exalted through your life.
3. The Lord will protect you from hidden arrogance.
4. Your lifting will not become your downfall.
5. You will never compete with God for His glory.
6. You will walk in humility and be greatly exalted.
7. God will keep you usable and blessable all your days.
8. Your voice will echo the praises of the Most High.
9. Your testimony will inspire others to glorify God.
10. Your life will showcase the majesty and glory of God.