Now this is our boast … — 2 Corinthians 1:12
Most of us don’t want to brag. Oh, deep down inside, we probably do. But, on the surface, we’ve learned that bragging gets us into trouble. If we brag, people call us proud and inconsiderate, and they may be right.
But Paul not only admits to a boast, but he seems perfectly okay with it. So, what do you think? Can Christians brag?
Just to be fair, the Jubilee Bible translates the word "boast" as "rejoicing." Okay, okay, let’s call it rejoicing. What can we rejoice about?
Paul gives the answer later in this same verse. We can rejoice that we have received the grace of God. God’s grace makes us sincere. God’s grace makes us loving. God’s grace makes us holy. We have a lot to "rejoice" about.
Is the urge to brag completely unholy? Is it possible that God wants His children to rejoice in the righteousness with which He clothes the saints?
Be encouraged!
Dwight
To find out more about Dwight Clough, his books, his ministry, or to receive this devotional via email visit DwightClough.com. Dwight and his wife Kim are active members of Lake City Church in Madison.