DEVOTION – DAY 190

2 Corinthians 10:17-18 “Boasting In The Lord”

2 Cor.10:17-18 But, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

One of the problems the apostle Paul faced in Corinth were false teachers who spoke against him. These false teachers were eloquent speakers capable of swaying the crowds of people by their smooth delivery. Compared to them, Paul was plain and straightforward in what he had to say. Paul preferred to let the Word of God work in the hearts of his listeners. That was why Paul in these verses concluded that there are people who will always go around boasting about their own achievements, seeking to impress people. But, it is not what people say about themselves that matter in the end – it is what God thinks about them, that matters. And God always favors those who are humble and who gives Him all the glory. God favors those who prefer to give all credit to God, and who thank Him for giving them the privilege to work through them for the service of others.

We know someone whose husband was conferred an honorary title of “Dato”. She immediately expected everyone to refer to her by her new title “Datin”. She liked to tell people about her other academic credentials, that she had a Master degree from a prestigious University. She would also boast about her charitable acts as ways to impress everyone. We contrast her with another man we know who also has the title “Dato” but he always insisted we do not call him by that title. He liked everyone to call him by his name. This man preferred to work quietly behind the scenes. He kept a low profile and would be the first to point out that it was not what he did that mattered, it was what God did through him that mattered and he wanted God to be given all the glory. He was sure the Lord would reward him in heaven and that was enough for him. He also helps people in need but he would do so anonymously. The woman seeks the praise of mankind. The man in the example seeks the praise of God. Their behaviors are therefore very different.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, please help us to never seek the praise of our fellow man and instead seek only praise from you. Please help us to let you work through us for your service and to give you all the glory. In the great name of the Lord Jesus we pray. Amen.

Questions

• Many people naturally seek the praise of man and make boasts about themselves. What can you do to avoid being boastful and seeking the praise of your fellow man? Discuss.
• Why is it bad for us to boast about ourselves? Discuss.
• What are some things you can do more of, that you know pleases the Lord?
• How can you give glory to God in the things you do? Discuss.