What Are We Proud Of !

 

This is what the Lord says:“Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches,²⁴ but let the one who boasts boast about this:  that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,” declares the Lord.

Jeremiah 9:23 -24

Dear Friends, We acknowledge that it is a common desire for most of us to look good in the eyes of the world. We want others to look up to us because of our wealth, our status in society, our children’s education, their abilities and talents etc. But we forget that all these are the gifts and mercies of God. We were born with nothing and we will also die with nothing. We are only stewards for whatever we possess, while we are in this world.

 In the above verse, the Lord instructs us clearly not to glory in our wisdom, might or riches, but to glory in the knowledge that we understand and know Him, that He is the Lord who exercises loving kindness, judgment and righteousness in the earth. What does God expect from us? Whatever blessings we might possess - our wealth, wisdom, strength, talents etc  are not for our use alone. God has given them to us to use wisely, to help others and to spread God’s love and compassion by caring and being kind to people around us.

During festive seasons, or for special occasions like our children’s birthdays, we celebrate and invite relatives and friends. But how many of us think of  the people who are in need around us.  Of course we celebrate with those we love to share our happiness, but we also should not forget to share our blessings with those who may not be able to enjoy the same privileges. The more we are given, the more we are responsible to do our part  to benefit those who are in need . It may not be only monetary assistance. We can also help them feel valued by talking to them, listening to their problems and grievances and assist them in any way possible. Sometimes just a smile or a kind word from us is enough to brighten up a person’s day.  My father is an example of a person who goes out of his way to help people.  Sometimes he helps financially. Other times, he just stops and takes time to talk to them and listen to their problems. I have often seen the look of joy and happiness on their faces when they are around him. Most often, people need a listening ear more than any other attention. My father often used to tell us during our childhood that when we help someone we should do it in the name of the Lord, not expecting anything in return, and surely when we need help, God will provide someone at the right time. This has proved so true in our lives. Whenever we were in difficulties, God opened up doors in unexpected ways and sometimes through people whom we least expected.

We also come across photographs posted on social media, of people posing with famous personalities and celebrities. They are proud that they were able to meet these well known individuals and want others to know it too. But they do not realize that wealth, fame and beauty does not last forever. Those who depend on these external factors for their acceptance and prominence in society, may soon come to understand that these are fleeting pleasures and once gone, most often their admirers and friends also disappear.

But, if we can consider ourselves satisfied and content, by being faithful in keeping God’s commandments and following the ways of Jesus Christ, we can live a life of peace and happiness, instead of depending on riches or popularity to keep us happy.  We can thank God for His blessings during our good times and trust in His ability to sustain  us through our difficult seasons. We can remain content in all circumstances, favorable or unfavorable.

The more we pray and spend time in God’s presence and in His Word, we come to know Him intimately. When we become close to God, there is an urgent desire in us to live a life pleasing to  Him. We will experience joy and peace when we begin to reflect the fruits of the Holy Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness and self control - (Galations:22-23), instead of depending on worldly attributes for our worth and happiness.

Dear friends, from today, let us not boast in our wealth, position, strength  or anything which the world proclaims as great, but let us boast in the knowledge we have of living a life pleasing to God, manifesting  His character of love, mercy, compassion and kindness to others..

Let our lives reflect the Glory of God so that the world can see Him through us.