"In the city desolation is left, and the gate is stricken with destruction. When it shall be thus in the midst of the land among the people, it shall be like the shaking of an olive tree, like the gleaning of grapes when the vintage is done. They shall lift up their voice, they shall sing; For the majesty of the LORD they shall cry aloud from the sea. Therefore glorify the LORD in the dawning light, the name of the LORD God of Israel in the coastlands of the sea." vs11-15

We must glorify the Lord for His tender mercies. He has a remnant through the election of grace, whom he spares like grapes leftover from the harvest or like the olives dropped from a shaken tree [vs13]. We are a small number, SPARED in the midst of destruction [Rom 11:4-5].

We deserve wrath as much as anyone else, but God chose to save us to glorify His grace [Eph 1:6]. Why so few? Perfect wisdom fixed the number, and designed a scheme whereby men and devils would be responsible for their own damnation. Grace, however, gets 100% credit for every good in us. We only get credit for sin.

This scheme rebukes the pride of man and produces worshippers and sincere servants. It makes us debtors to grace, meek, and lowly. Paul says, "I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and the foolish. So as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also [Rom 1:14-15]." Therefore, glorify God in your heart and mind, for He's worthy. Seek His praise alone!

God-glorifying people are rare! It's more than doctrine: it's heart and life, humility and love; it's gentleness and boldness; it's living for others to see Christ. "In all things be holding forth yourself as a pattern of good works, in the teaching, integrity, dignity, and sound speech beyond reproach, so that he who is of the contrary may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say concerning us [Titus 2:7-8]." This is the great life and the evidence that we know God.