5-21-21 THOUGHTS

We are all characters that struggle with selfishness, a tendency to boast, and yet we have “thorns in the flesh” that drive us into zones where we find little value in ourselves.  For all that he did, Paul could have been a one man boasting show!   We see him dealing with that below.  Our focus on God through Christ Jesus,  is our way to balance all the little problems and inconsistencies that plague us continually.  No wonder Jesus declared in John 14:6...         "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”  In all things, we must let HIM be Our way!

2Cor 10:17-18    But HE WHO BOASTS IS TO BOAST IN THE LORD. 18  For it is not he who commends himself that is approved, but he whom the Lord commends.
2Cor 12:4-10    was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which a man is not permitted to speak.  5  On behalf of such a man I will boast; but on my own behalf I will not boast, except in regard to my weaknesses. 6  For if I do wish to boast I will not be foolish, for I will be speaking the truth; but I refrain from this, so that no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me. 7  Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me —  to keep me from exalting myself! 8  Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. 9  And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. 10  Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.
1Tim 6:17-19    Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. 18  Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19  storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.
Jas 4:10    Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.
Matt 5:16    "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

My Prayer:
O Lord, teach us to balance ourselves that we may serve you with confidence in humility.  Help us always to seek commendation from you, and not from our own selves.  May our light be ever shining for your glory.  Together may we encourage each other, as we boldly produce fruit for the Kingdom.    Revive our spirits O God.                In Jesus name            Amen