What will you boast about? (10 mins.)
We live in an age where many people feel the need to constantly showcase their achievements, experiences, and skills. Social media has made this even more common. Every day we see photos of trips, celebrations, academic successes, professional achievements, and seemingly perfect moments.
But when we look at all this, an important question arises: What will you boast about? The Bible helps us answer that question. It teaches us that God’s servants do not seek to draw attention to themselves. Rather, they seek to glorify Jehovah and reflect humility.
Let us not try to impress others with our accomplishments and abilities (Jer 9:23; w20.07 6 pars. 13-15).
Today, many people use social media to share the best moments of their lives. This isn't always a bad thing. In fact, social media can help us stay in touch with family and friends.
However, there is a danger. Many posts are primarily aimed at impressing others. Some people want others to admire, praise, or even envy them.
LET'S READ JEREMIAH 9:23
“This is what Jehovah says: ‘Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom, nor the powerful man boast of his power, nor the rich man boast of his riches.’”
Studies show that people who spend a lot of time looking at other people's posts may feel lonely or depressed. Why? Because they compare their daily lives to a carefully curated version of other people's lives.
Let's recall the case of a 19-year-old sister. She admitted that she began to feel frustrated when she saw others seemingly having fun every weekend while she stayed home. Over time, this comparison affected her mood.
The reality is that no one publicizes the problems, worries, or difficulties they face every day. That's why comparisons are often unfair and misleading.
The Bible warns us about this tendency. Galatians 5:26 tells us: “Let us not become self-centered, stirring up competition and envy among ourselves.”
Also in 1 John 2:16, “the boasting of one’s possessions” is mentioned. This expression describes someone who tries to appear more important than they actually are.
Therefore, each of us can ask ourselves: “What image do my comments or posts project? Am I sharing something useful or am I simply seeking admiration? Could my posts awaken envy or negative feelings in other people?”
Christians don't need constant approval from others. Our worth doesn't depend on the number of comments, reactions, or followers we have.
Humility protects us from falling into the trap of pride and competition. It helps us remember that any ability, talent, or achievement we possess is possible thanks to Jehovah.
Let us look for opportunities to boast about Jehovah (Jer 9:24; w25.05 30 par. 14).
If we shouldn't boast about ourselves, what can we boast about? The answer is found in the Bible. We can and should boast about Jehovah.
LET'S READ JEREMIAH 9:24
“‘But let him who boasts boast of this: of having understanding and knowledge of me, that I am Jehovah, the one who demonstrates loyal love, justice and righteousness on earth, for these are the things I delight in,’ declares Jehovah.”
Psalm 105:3 also states: “Speak proudly of his holy name.” Jehovah rejoices when we speak proudly of him. Of course, this is not selfish pride, but rather feeling deeply grateful and honored for serving the true God.
The prophet Jeremiah expressed this principle with these words: “Let him who boasts boast of this: that he has insight and knowledge of me.” (Jeremiah 9:23, 24).
Let us think for a moment about all that Jehovah has done for us: He has given us the truth, taught us how to live, offers us hope for the future, supports us through his holy spirit, and allows us to be part of a worldwide brotherhood. Are these not reasons enough to speak with pride about our God?
When we introduce ourselves as Jehovah's Witnesses, we are showing that we value his name. We should not feel ashamed to identify ourselves as his servants at school, work, or in the community.
We know that Satan wants people to forget Jehovah’s name. Throughout history, he has tried to hide it or discredit it. However, we have the privilege of doing the exact opposite: making it known and defending its reputation.
Every time we participate in the preaching work, speak at meetings, or share an experience related to Jehovah, we are boasting about him in the best sense of the word.
Instead of saying, “Look what I’ve accomplished,” we can say, “Look what Jehovah has done.” Instead of highlighting our abilities, we can emphasize the goodness, wisdom, and love of our God. That kind of boasting honors Jehovah and strengthens the faith of those who listen to us.
Let us follow the example of humility of the apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 2:1-5; it “Wisdom” pars. 25, 26).
An excellent example of this balance is the apostle Paul. From a human perspective, Paul had many reasons to boast about himself. He was highly educated, possessed extensive knowledge, and had a great capacity for teaching. However, he never allowed these achievements to become the focus of his attention.
LET'S READ 1 CORINTHIANS 2:4, 5
“And when I spoke to them and preached the message, I did not do it with the persuasive words of the wise, but with a demonstration of the Spirit and power, so that they would not put their faith in human wisdom, but in the power of God.”
In 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, Paul explained that he had not come with spectacular speeches or human wisdom. His goal was for people's faith to be based on the power of God and Christ, not on human ability.
Some people in his time criticized him, saying his presence was weak and his speaking style unimpressive. Others preferred more eloquent and charismatic speakers. But Paul did not try to compete with them.
Paul understood a fundamental truth: if people were impressed by him, their faith would be weak. But if they came to admire Jehovah and Christ, their faith would be strong. That is why he acted as a “wise director of works,” focusing on building spiritually strong disciples.
Furthermore, Paul recognized that human wisdom has limits. That is why he wrote at 1 Corinthians 3:18: “If any of you thinks he is wise in this system, let him become ignorant so that he may become wise.”
True wisdom is not about accumulating knowledge to impress others. It is about knowing Jehovah, obeying him, and reflecting his qualities.
Paul always directed attention to Jehovah. He never sought to make Christians followers of Paul. Rather, he wanted them to be followers of Christ.
His example teaches us a valuable lesson. When we achieve success, receive recognition, or accomplish something important, we can ask ourselves: Am I seeking glory for myself? Or am I taking advantage of the opportunity to give glory to Jehovah?
Humility doesn't mean denying our abilities. It means recognizing where they come from and using them to honor God.
Illustration
In the image in our Activity Guide, we can see a brother taking a selfie next to his sports car. This image reminds us that the things we boast about can influence others, for better or for worse.
Conclusion
Let's return to the initial question: What will you boast about? The world encourages us to boast about our possessions, accomplishments, abilities, and appearance. But the Bible shows us a much better way.
First, let's not try to impress others with our achievements and abilities.
Second, let us look for opportunities to boast about Jehovah and speak proudly of his name.
And third, let us follow the example of humility of the apostle Paul, who directed all the glory to Jehovah and Christ.
Let us all make our own the words of Jeremiah 9:24: “Let him who boasts do so of this: of having understanding and knowledge of me.”
If we boast about Jehovah instead of boasting about ourselves, we will honor our God, strengthen our faith, and help others to draw closer to him.
Comments
Post a Comment