Boasting in the Lord

by Jan 20, 2017Easy and Light

Boasting in the Lord

But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise… so that, as it is written,”Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”

1 Corinthians 1:27a, 31 (NIV)

Regardless of your political leanings, we all can agree on two things as our new president gets sworn in to office today: one, it is a significant moment in our nation; and two, we all need to be in prayer for our leaders and our nation. As I reflect on the turmoil that has surrounded the months leading up to today, I find great comfort in the above passage in 1 Corinthians. Throughout the election, we heard the candidates boasting ad nauseam about the amazing things they would do if they won. This was not surprising; it’s our human nature to boast about our accomplishments and to tout the impressive things that we’ve done. This passage makes it clear – boasting itself is not improper. We just need to boast in what God has done, rather than our own achievements. Looking at our divided country in this moment, it can be tempting to doubt God’s sovereignty or wonder what he is up to. It doesn’t always make sense from our human understanding. But I Corinthians 1:27-31 gives some insight into how God works in the world:
Lord God, I praise you that you are in control, no matter the circumstances. Thank you that we can trust your ways. Be with our new president and the rest of our country’s leaders as they make decisions that will impact our future. Help each of us to be a voice for unity and peace.

But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And because of himyou are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”

God does not operate by what makes sense to our human brain. Hallelujah! This is great news when we are concerned by what we see. If we are confused or uncertain about our nation’s future, let’s boast in God. He is in control of all things and he knows what he is doing.

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

Our Faithful Partner

Our Faithful PartnerThus says the LORD: “Where is your mother’s certificate of divorce, with which I sent her away? Or which of my creditors is it to whom I have sold you? Behold, for your iniquities you were sold, and for your transgressions your mother was sent...

Waiting on Peace

Waiting on PeaceI waited patiently for the Lord;    he turned to me and heard my cry. Psalm 40:1 (NIV)A while back I made a horrible mistake and I ended up causing some dear friends an incredible amount of pain. I took responsibility for my actions and apologized...

Hearing for the Holidays

Hearing for the HolidaysA fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. Proverbs 18:2 (NIV)As much as I would love for my family holidays to reflect the lyrics of the Christmas music we hear at this time of year, for most of us, having a...