What do you boast about?

We live in a world where it is popular to boast about the things we have and the things we have done. Why do we boast about these things? Will this type of boasting have an eternal impact on others? Yes, and possibly a negative one to boot! In 2 Corinthians 11, we see Paul facing false prophets who were trying to take advantage of the Corinthians and teach them false doctrines. However, Paul was compelled to put a stop to it, to the point of looking like a fool.

Paul, out of love for the Corinthians, first boasted about his weaknesses and his sufferings so that the Corinthians could really see the truth. God was still using him to advance the gospel. The truth is that God’s word is sovereign and true; and is proven repeatedly when we put it into practice in our lives, despite any of our short comings.

Secondly, Paul also boasted about his strengths, but it was not because he wanted the spotlight and for the Corinthians to turn their eyes away from God, but because he wanted the Corinthians to see true humility in that: he could use his strength to glorify God, teach the truth, and boldly stand up against the false prophets who wanted to malign the word of God.

Furthermore, Paul’s actions challenge me to boast in my weaknesses and my strengths so that God’s words can be proven true and so that false doctrine can be dismissed. So many times, I would prefer to hide both attributes because I am fearful of what people would think. I really want people to know the truth and I really want God to continue to use me to help others know the truth.

In summary, what do you boast about? Do you boast about your weaknesses and your strengths? Why? Is your boasting, for the sake of the gospel? Be encouraged that no matter what your weaknesses or strengths are, God’s glory can be revealed in your lives and you can have a lasting impact on other people’s lives for eternity. Let us step out of our comfort zone, let us boast about our weaknesses and strengths for the sake of the gospel.