Misplaced Boasting

Boasting about our own intellect and power is never right. We must constantly remember that God made us as we are. He gave us all the gifts and abilities we have. Without Him, we could do nothing. Therefore, all of our boasting must be to boast in the Lord's goodness and strength. Any other boasting is sin. 

That was God's concern when He decided to give Gideon and the army of Israel victory over the Midianite army. (Judges 7:2) Gideon had gathered a large army, but God told him he had too many warriors. If God let them win the victory with such a large army, they would boast that they had done it themselves. That would be wrong, and lead to other sins of pride.

We are always tempted to think more of ourselves than we should. That comes from our flesh. Pride is rooted in our human nature. We must do whatever it takes it put that pride out of our hearts and lives, so we can honor the Lord, not ourselves. If pride takes over, we will get farther and farther from God.

Instead, God tells us that we must be humble. When we are humble, like Jesus was humble, He will lift us up and exalt us. Then, He will know we will give Him the credit for whatever He empowers us to do. People will see the good work of God in us, and they will be drawn to worship Him, not think more of us.

#NHBaptistdotorg

Tomorrow, I intend to read Judges 9-11.