Boast in God!

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 9:24 NLT

We live in a world today where the emphasis is on achievement before relationship. The desire to achieve has become more powerful than the cultivation of a relationship with those who work with you and for you. The world lays accolades at the feet of the man who accomplishes the most. It’s no wonder that many become proud and boast about their accomplishments. Verse 23 says, 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.”  As God’s representative, Jeremiah reminds the people that wisdom, power and riches are not reasons for boasting.

God didn’t tell them to stop boasting immediately; instead He gave them different criteria for boasting. God wanted them to boast about their relationship with Him. Paul expressed a similar experience in Philippians chapter 3. He was born into a powerful family and he could trace his ancestry and bloodline. He was a devout follower of the law and was so committed to his religious beliefs that he persecuted anyone who held a differing opinion. When Paul had a life changing experience with Jesus Christ, he looked at his accomplishments differently. He considered them worthless. Instead he had a desire to know God in an intimate way. He realized that the road to righteousness was not through the law but through faith in Christ.  That allowed Paul to change his focus. Instead of looking back at the things he gained; he was looking forward to the heavenly prize.

Thought for Today: Know God and boast in Him.

Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.