...As the Waters Cover the Sea

The Knowledge of the Glory of the Lord

“…the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea” (Habakkuk 2:14 NIV). 

Have you ever stopped to think about how it is that the waters cover the sea? The simple answer to this question is that they cover the sea completely—from the surface all the way to the ocean floor. And so, in like manner, we look forward to the knowledge of the glory of the Lord covering the earth fully and completely. This sentiment is echoed throughout Scripture -  

“May the whole earth be filled with his glory” (Psalm 72:19 NIV). 

“... as surely as the glory of the LORD fills the whole earth” (Numbers 14:92 NIV). 

“The whole earth is full of His glory” (Isaiah 6:2 NIV).

What is the Glory of God?

God's glory has to do with his power, and his renown, but it is also directly related to his nature. When Moses asked to see God's glory, Scripture tells us that God acted by showing Moses the one thing the world needs the most...his goodness.

"Then Moses said, ‘Now show me your glory.’ And the Lord said, ‘I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence’” (Exodus 33:18-19 NIV).

The glory of the Lord is awesome in its splendor like a vast, deep ocean which covers everything beneath it. Yet, beyond its depth and its fullness, the ocean exhibits other qualities and attributes which address the implications of the manifestation of his glory. These four states of oceanic glory help describe the magnitude of the majesty and glory of God. 

Still Waters

At times, waters are placid, peaceful and still. This glory emotes safety, serenity, and rest. Not only is it peaceful, it is a state that reflects on earth, the glory of heaven above. In this state, we might be tempted to sit and be stagnant in the status quo of the moment, forgetting the deepness beneath. 

Wind and the Water

Gentle motion, navigable sea lanes, and the ebb and flow of normal life are accomplished in the midst of fair weather. Wind that fills the sails and ruffles the surface of the waters makes for easy travel. The glory of this state is that learned skills can be applied in conjunction with the rhythm and flow of nature to produce forward motion and momentum. 

Stormy Weather

Heavy storms can unsettle the sea, bringing challenge and risk, making travel dependent upon the mercy of the waves. The vast majority try to avoid its unavoidable glory and run from its transformative power. But the fact that at least two miracles recorded in the Gospels took place amidst stormy weather, should encourage us to trust and leave fear behind.

Volatile Conditions

Harsh atmospheric and geological events can turn the sea into a force to be reckoned with. An earthquake, for example, can set water in motion, building wave upon wave until it reaches critical mass, not unlike the waves of revival. Often resisted, this force of glory is actually the remedy for those who possess an unquenchable thirst. Here, there is no more argument as to the majesty of His power.

Navigating the Glories

If we pray for the knowledge of the glory of the Lord to cover the earth as the waters cover the sea, then we must respect every aspect of how his glory manifests and the manner in which it covers creation.