To borrow another metaphor, it is so easy to blow our own horn. Each of our hearts is filled with just enough pride to cause us to want the spot light of life to shine on us. So we are quick to make known our virtues. We want others to see the good things we have done, to be recognized as a valuable member of the team—if not indispensable! While Paul does not seem ready to play second fiddle, he certainly was not going to glowingly brag about his achievements either.
- If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.
2 Corinthians 11:30 NIV
A group of “super-apostles” had made their way to the church at Corinth. They gained acceptance by the church by making known their great gifts. From all appearances these guys were everything the church needed and more. Yet Paul called them “false apostles” who “masquerade as servants of righteousness” (see 2 Corinthians 11:13-15).
It seems to me that should be reason enough to stop patting ourselves on the back. My desire to be noticed does not come from God, and if I continually give into self aggrandizement then I’m actually proving to be the opposite of what I claim to be. Instead of being a servant of God, I end up serving Satan.
The subtle difference is who gets the glory for what I do. Paul was willing to boast about his weaknesses in order that “Christ's power may rest on [him]” (2 Corinthians 12:9). It is through our weaknesses that Jesus strengthens us to be more than we can be apart from Him. And to be honest, even in areas where I am strong because God has gifted me, I must remember to depend upon the Lord. It’s not about me; it’s about Him.
Here’s another thought. Even when I can reach the itch on my back, it just feels better when someone else does it. I think the same can be said about patting ourselves on the back too. Besides what I really want is for Jesus to pat me on the back and say, “Well done good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). Oh, won’t that feel good? What do you think?
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