GIVE GOD THE GLORY

Jer. 9:23-24 This is what the LORD says, “Let not the wise man gloat in his wisdom, or the mighty man in his might, or the rich man in his riches. Let them boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the LORD who is just and righteous, whose love is unfailing, and that I delight in these things. I, the LORD, have spoken!”  NLT

       If you have been blessed with spiritual maturity and insight understand this, it is only by God’s grace that you are who you are.  You don’t deserve to know what you know or be who you are, but God has brought you to this position of life so that you can help others on their journey of faith.  If you have been blessed to be used of the Lord to reach people for Him, it has nothing to do with you.  God ordains who gets what gifts and knowledge.  God determines whom He puts where in His kingdom.  We have nothing and are nothing apart from the Lord’s will.

         When you are tempted to look at yourself, look in the mirror of God’s grace and mercy.  See yourself as one whom the Lord has put together and put to use.  See yourself as you really are, clay in the Potter’s hand.  Look upon yourself and then give God the glory.  Praise Him that you been called out of your sinful life and into His love and grace.  Praise Him that you have been chosen by Him to make a difference in the world for Him.  Praise Him for the giftedness He has given you to accomplish what you do for Him.

       Wise is he who knows that only in Christ are we righteous before God.  Only in Christ will God spare us from judgment that is coming upon the world.  Wise is he who keeps his eyes focused on the Lord and resists the temptation to be focused on himself.  Wise is he who boasts in the Lord only and strives to know and understand that it is in Christ alone we are made holy and acceptable to God.  The Lord, our God, delights in those who are truly wise in their understanding of these things.