Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God’s grace.”
2 Corinthians 1:12 NIV
Have you ever heard someone brag about being a bully? I have and remember feeling a pit in my stomach as I listened. Hearing someone recount how they mistreated someone else is as cringeworthy as it gets. Yet, even if we don’t brag or boast about bad behavior, could we actually boast about how we treat or how we speak about others? Am I able to say that I have conducted myself with holiness in my relationships? Do I have integrity in my interactions with others? And is God’s grace my guide as I go about my daily business?
I have to admit that at times my thoughts, actions, behaviors, words, and overall attitude is anything but brag-worthy. It is so easy in this critic vs. critic, polarizing, “it’s all about me” society to instantly become defensive and downright mean sometimes. But as those who are attempting to follow Christ, how are others supposed to recognize Christ in us when we act hateful, hurtful, and horrible to others?
Paul talks about not acting according to the world’s wisdom in this verse. I find the word “wisdom” very interesting because there is so much foolishness right now in the world. Selfishness, finger-pointing, pride, and inconsideration seem to rule the day. But true wisdom in thought and action comes from knowing Jesus and his selflessness, humility, and kindness that he displayed over and over again.
Each day is a new one, where God’s forgiveness and mercy offers us a clean slate to start over again. I pray that I will be able to draw a picture of love and compassion on that slate that I can boldly show without reservation. Let us focus on having brag-worthy behavior…sincere in loving one another and extending the grace given to us by an always good God.
Everyday Elevation 