The other night, before sleep claimed me, I read these words:

“You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. Yes, ask me for anything in my name and I will do it!” John 14:13-14 NLT

For a person in need, these verses make some high claims. But, let’s examine them a little bit. What stands out to you?

I’ll admit it most of the time when I have read these sentences it has been the beginning and end of these verses that catches my attention, “ask for anything in my name, and I will do it”. Anything? Really? Yes! The catch is found in the middle of these two verses. “I will do it so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.” You see Jesus doesn’t do anything that doesn’t glorify the Father. Never, not even once has he gone against that Father. His entire time walking this earth was in submission to the Father. Glorious, loving, honoring submission that is what Jesus did as he was in the garden praying for a way out of the cross. “Abba, Father,” he cried out, “everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Mark 14:26

Oh, to get to the point in my prayer life where my words are not for my will but His!

But what brings God glory? Take some time and make a list. I believe it will improve your walk with him if you know what to focus on to be more like Jesus.

Here are a few of the things I came up with:

1. Salvation of lost souls
2. Humble spirit
3. Repentant heart
4. Kindness shown
5. Obedience to the Holy Spirit
6. Loving others

What else would you add?

After saying all these things (to the disciples), Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you. John 17:1

I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. John 17:4

My prayer is that 2017 is that I bring glory to the Father and give all glory to Him for He is worthy! I pray that for you as well. Let’s focus on the things that really matter this year.