Throughout Scripture we read of people magnifying God. It is a concept that is at the heart of much of the Psalms (see Ps 34:3; 69:30 in particular) and perhaps most memorably, we read that Mary’s soul magnified God when she learned from Gabriel that she would bear the Messiah (Lk 1:46). When we consider the idea of magnifying God, we think of exclaiming how big He is; we are acknowledging His glory, goodness and might. Magnifying God is often seen as reflecting His greatness, and this is certainly right and appropriate.
However, when we think of magnification we should recognize that it not only involves showcasing the enormity of what is being considered, it also involves revealing aspects that may not be immediately seen. A magnifying glass, for example, is often used to reveal details; to make apparent what might otherwise be overlooked. When we magnify God, we should strive to display the fullness of Who He is: His patience as well His discipline; His mercy as well as His justice; His gentleness as well as His might. Our lives should reflect that He is a God of the details as well as Lord of all creation; our lives should make known that the One who holds all things together (Col 1:17), also holds His beloved children in His hands (Jn 10:28).
Depending on our season of life (as well as our theological tradition and our maturity in Christ), we may be prone to emphasize certain aspects of God’s character over others. But when we think of magnifying God, let us consider how we can faithfully showcase the totality of His character. As we do so, may others increasingly know the details and the greatness of Who He is.
