It’s Not That

“For 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 struggled to comprehend the immensity of something? You lack the words to describe what you feel, but have an innate knowledge of what it is not?

In today's verse, Habakkuk expresses what it means to "be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord" by contrasting it to what it is not. He lists a series of "woes" directed at those who build their power through oppression, greed, and exploitation. He speaks against those who enslave others for their own gain (v. 6), those who build their houses at the expense of others (v. 9), those who perpetrate violence and injustice (v. 12), and those who lead others into corruption (v. 15). These are all examples of what “the knowledge of the glory of the Lord is not”—self-serving, fleeting, and ultimately destructive.

But Habakkuk invites us to lift our eyes higher: "For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea."

This is something entirely different. It is not the grasping ambition of men or the unstable rule of nations that rise and fall. The knowledge of God’s glory is expansive and all-encompassing, covering everything like the waters cover the sea—just as no part of the ocean is untouched by water, so too will the earth be filled with the awareness of his presence. Nothing will remain outside of his reach. It is the deep recognition of his sovereignty, justice, and love. It is the kind of awareness that does not merely inspire—it transforms. It shifts our desires, realigns our priorities, and calls us to live differently.

How can we embody this awareness as we go about our lives? It might be seen in how we advocate for justice, how we treat the overlooked, or how we shift from selfish ambition to kingdom-minded living. For example, one way to act on this is by writing to city council members, seeking justice for the unhoused, advocating for more housing, public restrooms, and increased mental health services. Remember that the knowledge of God’s glory is not passive—it compels action.

Lord, help us to recognize what your glory is—and what it is not. Let us not be drawn to fleeting human achievements but instead seek the vastness of your presence. Give us eyes to see beyond the temporary successes of this world and to behold your greatness. May our hearts be filled with the knowledge of your glory, as deep, unshakable, and consuming as the waters of the sea. Teach us to walk in your ways, to seek justice, to love mercy, and to trust in your eternal reign. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim