A caution for the times we’re tempted to claim bragging rights
By Dean Collins
Bragging rights are a big deal in college and professional sports. The college and professional football seasons are well underway, and lots of bragging rights have been touted. Those loyal to their hometown team or their alma mater seem to start the bragging long before the seasons begin, and they intensify as the year progresses. And the odd thing about bragging rights is that most of the folks bragging had nothing to do with the outcome of the game!
The prophet Jeremiah said something about bragging with words worth remembering. He attributes this message as direct revelation from God, worthy of our complete attention:
“Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches.”
In other words, don’t brag about what you know, how important you are, or how much money you have. We have all been around people who think they are smarter than everyone else or who seem to enjoy flaunting their titles. And many folks form their identities around what they own, where they live, and what they drive. But Jeremiah’s warning supports advice from the apostle Paul:
“Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”
God’s Word is consistent, reminding us that all of our blessings come from the Lord. Yes, you might have invented something or have a fancy degree or a big title, but all that we have is possible because God was with us, helping us along the way even when we failed to recognize his involvement.
Jeremiah reminds the reader that the Lord practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness. These are the virtues fundamental to the kingdom of God. God demonstrates all of these virtues, not just in general but with each of us individually. The prophet stressed that God knows us and understands us. And even though he knows our weaknesses and flaws, he still chooses to love us and bless us with life.
God knows us, but still he chooses to love and bless us.
God smiles when he sees his children come to the understanding that he is the source of all we have. When we offer our minds, our hearts, and our bank accounts to God, he sees the purity of our commitment to his ways and he takes delight in bringing joy to our lives as he takes our offerings and multiplies them over and over.
God, forgive us for the many times we have taken credit for things you have done for us. Thank you for giving us the ability to think, learn, and grow in wisdom. Thank you for teaching us that joy comes when we surrender our control and allow you to use us how and where you want to use us. Thank you for the financial blessings we enjoy. We acknowledge that all we have comes as gifts to us. We claim no bragging rights for our lives, except that we know you and take joy in walking with you in this life as you transform us for eternity. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Your time with God’s Word
Jeremiah 9:23-24; 1 Corinthians 1:25-31 ESV
Photo by gpointstudio at istockphoto.com
