CHRIST IN YOU, THE HOPE OF GLORY

 

EVENING DEVOTION by James Smith

JUNE 29

 

Colossians 1:27

To whom God would make known what is the riches 

of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; 

which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

 
The object of a Christian’s hope is glory; 

   but the exact nature of that glory is unknown. 

        Its greatness is at present inconceivable.
 
It is said to comprise an inheritance,

   a kingdom, a crown, gladness, exceeding joy.
 
It is a crown of glory, a weight of glory, 

  eternal glory—the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
 
It is glory clothing us—glory in us.
 
It will robe the body; it will fill the soul.
 
It includes purity and power, wisdom, and knowledge.
 
It is waiting to be revealed.
 
We expect this. This hope or expectation originated in grace

  —is produced by the Holy Spirit

  —springs from faith

  —rests on the promise and oath of God

  —waits God’s time

  —and purifies its possessor.
 
The evidence or proof of this hope is, Christ in us.
 
He dwells in his people by his word, 

  by his grace, and by his Spirit. 

He dwells in is as a King in his kingdom, ruling;

  as a Master in his family, providing; 

  as an Owner in his habitation, claiming; 

  as the sap in the tree, supplying; 

  as God in his temple, to be adored.
 
If Christ dwells in you, he dwells in your thoughts, desires, affections, enjoyments and aims.
 

Jesus, in me for ever dwell,

Thyself, the gift unspeakable:

The hope of heavenly bliss impart,

The glorious earnest in my heart.

 
James Smith