Boast in Him 10/20/2009
 'If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness' (2 Corinthians 11:30). I'm sure we've all done it. Compared ourselves to those surrounding us, I mean. Sizing up the competition, so to speak. I bet we've all entertained thoughts like, "If only I were her size", "Man, she's super mom, I could never do all that", "My hair won't ever look that great", "I wish I had what she has". Whatever you see as your weakness, you've most likely seen as a strength that someone else possesses. The need to compare ourselves to those around us is natural, but that doesn't mean it's conducive to spiritual living. What comes naturally is often linked to our sin nature, and living what we believe is what often takes the most effort. Thankfully, God is ready, willing, and able to help us carry that load! God never meant for us to play the role of coveter. He never intended for us to boast in our strengths or to label one another based on such things. Judging people, including ourselves, based on our blessings is sinful. Material possessions, natural talents, spiritual gifts, and blessings of all sorts are from above. Who are we to feel entitled to what our neighbor has? Why should we feel disappointed by what we've got in life when God is the one gifting us all? Just what does God have to say about our desire to boast in such things? That is what it boils down to, you know? We all want to be the best at something and be noticed for it, that's the essence of boasting; pride. "Thus says the Lord: Do not let the wise boast in their wisdom, do not let the mighty boast in their might, do not let the wealthy boast in their wealth; but let those who boast boast in this: that they understand and know me, that I am the Lord; I act with steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the Lord" (Jeremiah 9:23-24). Not only should we not boast in our own blessings, but we shouldn't place importance on those of other people. Instead we should be shifting the glory to God from whom each good and perfect gift comes. Now that's something to boast about! Knowing the will of God, loving Him dearly, spending your days in Him, we can boast in His glory all the days of our lives! "I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God--what is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:1-3).  CommentsWed, 21 Oct 2009 9:41:44 am This is a good word! I often battle with the beast of pride- comparing myself to others successes, wondering why I can't do or be what someone else is. All gifts and talents that we've been blessed with have been given to us by God. Therefore we should not boast in our own successes or the successes of others, but rather, we should boast in our great God!!! Thanks for this reminder. :o) Love!! Wed, 21 Oct 2009 6:51:32 pm Pride, yes, I am familiar with it. Replacing God worship with self-worship. Thu, 22 Oct 2009 1:04:48 pm Victoria, I'm looking forward to getting to know you through Exemplify. I'll be doing book reviews. Leave a Reply |  
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