We love to boast about what we know, what we have done, and what we have. We tell our family and friends all about it. We post photos and videos on social media. We proudly display our diplomas, trophies and possessions for all to see. We tell everyone who will listen and get our feelings hurt when they aren’t impressed. We form much of our self-image based on these things. And all the while, society applauds and encourages this glorification of self. This aspect of our human nature is ugly!
God clearly tells us not to be this way. He also tells us what we should be boasting about.
- Jeremiah 9:23-24 This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. 24 But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken! (NLT)
Jehovah God should be the most important thing in our lives. Our conversations, social media presence, possessions, accomplishments, etc. should point others to Him. We should be celebrating and sharing with others our knowledge of Him, our relationship with Him, and our appreciation for all that He has done for us. We should be telling everyone about His amazing love and His awesome attributes. This is beautiful boasting!!
- Psalm 34:1-3 I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. 2 I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are helpless take heart. 3 Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together. (NLT)
It is good to enjoy and acknowledge the blessings of this life. But as followers of Jesus, our goal is to bring honor and glory and praise to our Heavenly Father (not to ourselves).
- 1 Peter 4:11 Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen. (NLT)
Beautiful boasting brings glory to God!
Prayer
Dear Lord, please help us to keep all aspects of our lives in proper perspective as we seek Your face and share Your truth with others. Forgive us when we bring too much attention to ourselves and fail to share Your love with the world. Teach us to boast only in You! I pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
