2 CORINTHIANS 12:6

“Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth.  But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say…”

TO PONDER:

I’m sure we’ve all boasted or bragged at some time during our lives about what we’ve done, where we’ve been, about our children or grandchildren and so it goes on.  And yes, we’ve probably suffered regret and accusations over some of the decisions we’ve made, but if we compare our journey to Paul’s we should realise ours has been like a walk in the park on a quite windy day.   

Remember that Paul suffered continually – he was imprisoned, beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, faced opposition, accused of many different things. Even going through all these trials, Paul only boasted about one thing.   It wasn’t about the good work he had done, he didn’t need or want to be placed on a pedestal … the only thing he mentioned was his weakness (2 Cor 12:5) that helped him to be humble and be content in all things, “the thorn in his side” (2 Cor 12:7).

I oft times think of the journey I’ve travelled with God by my side when I read this verse.  He has always gone before me, opened the doors that were meant to be opened and closed those that needed to be closed … even though I had doubts about some (human nature).  He has placed me in places I never even thought would be possible in my journey, the things I witnessed, the good and the bad, the love and acceptance, and the accusations.  

Just like Paul, none of us need to be placed on a pedestal.  What we do when we’re out there doing what He has commissioned us to do; it should be for His glory not ours. I know without a doubt that all I’ve accomplished would not have been possible without Him working through me.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father. I just want to thank you for the journey I’ve travelled so far with you as my strength, my guide, my rod and my staff, my healer, my friend and Abba Father.  I thank You that you never gave up on me or left me to journey on my own, that you led the way, always.  I pray Lord that I always remember that whatever I do, or when I speak of the adventures we’ve had together, that I never lose that humbleness and that I always give you the Glory. AMEN

Today's devotion written by Noeline Brock, LifeWay Online