Praising and Boasting

The Bible here speaks about two important characteristics: What we praise and what we boast about. Far more than just incidental parts of our lives, these behaviors reveal a great deal about the real condition of our heart. In fact, they provide insights into our nature and even signal what we want other people to think about us.

When we praise a person, we are indicating that they have acted in ways we particularly appreciate. We praise them when we think they are worthy of honor and respect, and when we appreciate what they accomplish. When we boast, we are describing our own accomplishments that we’re particularly proud of, or ones that mean a great deal to us.

This passage states a vital principle. Our boasting and praise both give us a valuable mirror to evaluate our lives. They expose blinds and help us see more clearly what others can see about us.

Paul knew that what we boast about is a strong indicator of what is in our hearts. He urged Believers to remember that “he who boasts is to boast in the Lord” (2 Corinthians 10:17). Knowing how much he owed to Jesus, Paul declared, “May it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Galatians 6:14).

Ask God to examine your heart and mind. What are your priorities? Who are the people who serve as models for your life? And as you think about your own life, what events and accomplishments do you boast about? What experiences or accomplishments bring you particular satisfaction?

Allow God to reveal what your boasting and praise indicate about your heart. And focus anew on boasting about what Jesus has done for you. Let your life be filled with His praises. Look for opportunities to tell others about the Gospel.