29 October | EVERYONE
"And the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— that, as it is written, ‘He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.’” 1 Corinthians 1: 28-31
Can the wonders that God works in the lives of His children become an instrument of perdition for them? Of course! The Corinthians were in that danger. God had given them not only the good news of the gospel but also the wisdom that comes from the knowledge of the Lord. At some point, they began to think that they themselves were the source of that wisdom.
Corinth was a pagan and corrupt city. Itinerant preachers of various philosophies and sophisms passed through that city. The Christians, who at first had accepted the message with simplicity of heart, began to philosophize and speculate with the gospel. They ceased to be humble and became arrogant and proud, thinking that their human reasoning was superior to the simple good news of Jesus. That is why Paul reminded them that “the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen."
God had chosen simple people, and not because of their merit, "that no flesh should glory in His presence." You and I can consider ourselves wise and knowledgeable. A college degree can bathe our ego in pride. A well-paying profession or a thriving company may lead us to think that we are smart and capable. The reality is that, even if we are successful and reputable in the eyes of people, in the presence of God, we are just dust that does not breathe or move.
In front of Him, we get to see ourselves as we really are. So “he who glories, let him glory in the Lord." Do not let the spark of pride turn into an incendiary flame in your life. As long as you humbly acknowledge God's power in you, you will continue to be a source of blessing to your family, the church, and the society in which you live.
Take Action
Boasting closes the door to growing spiritually and personally, something we all need. Therefore, it is easier for those who do not have much to boast about to accept Jesus. Think about it and ask yourself if you need to change in this regard. Sing "Let Him Glory in the Lord" (if possible, with your family).