Boasting in the cross

'May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world'. Galatians 6:14

Boasting in the cross. What is boasting? According to Dictionary.com, boasting is defined as speaking 'with exaggeration and excessive pride, especially about oneself'. When we boast, there's a sense of self-glorification involved'.

Paul never boasted about anything except the cross of Christ. He is regarded as one of the greatest Christians to have ever lived, with everything he taught infused with the power of God.

- He didn't boast about his national privileges, even though he was born a Jew and described himself as 'a Hebrew of the Hebrews' in Philippians 3:5.

- Paul also refrained from boasting about his own works, despite making a tremendous impact through sharing the Gospel, as outlined in 2 Corinthians 11:23-28, which documents his hardships.

- Paul didn't boast about his knowledge either, despite being greatly gifted. He excelled as a speaker, preacher, and writer, delving into profound concepts (as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:4).

- Additionally, Paul didn't boast about his personal graces, which included boldness, humility, prayerfulness, and thankfulness.

1 Corinthians 1:31 says, so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”

It is good that we ask these questions and take time to ponder.

What are my priorities?

On what do I boast the most?

Do I seek His Kingdom first?

Do I give God the glory?

Do I think about the cross?

Do I think about what God has done for me?

Prayer:

God, I'm truly sorry for prioritizing other things above You. I come before You in repentance and ask the Holy Spirit to keep my heart focused on things above. Help me to boast in the Lord and in the cross. Amen.