Commendation & Boasting
I have met people before who seem to think more highly of themselves than they ought. They could also be called arrogant and full of pride. I think there are probably times most everyone has be guilty of this. There are some who appear to have a DNA filled with arrogance. I believe that our pride and arrogance is a huge detriment to living honorably before the Lord. If I’m arrogant, I obviously think I’m something special. It’s the Lord Who makes me what I am. I should not be prideful of anything that He as blessed me with. He should get all the credit for whoever I’ve become or who I am.
Paul writes to the Corinth church in his second letter speaking about his authority from the Lord. He defends his authority within the boundaries set by God. Check this out…
17 As the Scriptures say, “If you want to boast, boast only about the Lord.”
18 When people commend themselves, it doesn’t count for much. The important thing is for the Lord to commend them. (2 Corinthians 10:17-18 NLT)
The passage of scripture Paul is quoting about boasting come from Jeremiah. Check this out…
23 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! (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT)
I like to be commended and bragged upon as much as the next person. I need to be sure to give the Lord credit for any good that comes from me. Without Him, I’m not capable of anything good. I need to be humble and grateful for any kindness shown to me by anyone. The Lord shows me kindness and grace that is much more than I deserve. I would rather be known by the Lord than to be known by millions of raving fans. The desire for fame and notoriety can be addictive and destructive. I am happy to live and serve wherever the Lord calls me to serve. I want to live my life for His purposes and goals and not my own. I’m thankful that He has saved me and chosen to make my heart His home.
Pressing On!
Dwayne