2 Corinthians 10:18
The scripture for today is 2 Corinthians 10:18
2 Corinthians 10:18 For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
Self-exaltation is a sure sign of spiritual poverty. The presence of Christ in the heart is manifested through humility. Those who boast of their talents and gifts are misdirected. How we see ourselves is not the criterion by which are judged; it is the estimate which God places upon us that makes us useful for His purposes.
It is the judgment of God that we seek, not our own or that of others. He is the one who saves and it is only by His grace that we are able to do anything at all. Should we glory in our abilities as if we are responsible for God-given endowments? God alone is in a position to commend and judge. His judgment is true for it does not consider wealth, education, speaking abilities, or the accolades of men. God looks on the heart, for from the heart flows the character of God which was demonstrated in Christ Jesus. His character is what is approved in the eyes of God.
We cannot save ourselves so why should we commend ourselves. God saves us and He alone can commend us. It is not our life; it is His life in us that matters. We are not our own; we are His. Everything that is good in us comes from Him and if there is to be any glory, it is His.
We can rejoice with thanksgiving knowing that in whatever state we find ourselves, God is always the same. When our eyes are turned to Him, we see the source of life “for in Him we live and move and have our being.” Acts 17:28 As we embrace His presence, our insignificance is raised into His significance and our smallness is raised into His greatness. We recognize that we are complete in Christ and all glory and honor is due Him. He commends those who lay down their lives so that His life can be expressed through them.
God bless you as you continue in His service.
Tim