Intentionally Boast in the Cross

But as for me, I will never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. The world has been crucified to me through the cross, and I to the world.

Galatians 6:14 csb

Who Wrote This to Whom?

Leon Morris wrote, “Galatians is a passionate letter, the outpouring of the soul of a preacher on fire for his Lord and deeply committed to bringing his hearers to an understanding of what saving faith is.” It was written to the Churches of Galatia. It is believed that this was about 15 years following Paul’s conversion on the Road to Damascus but before the council in Jerusalem. (since it was not mentioned in the letter) ‘Galatia’ covered the territory settled by the Gauls.” There is debate about whether the letter was written to northern or southern Galatia because Paul visited them both; however, it’s a moot point because this letter has much to say to all Christians.

What Does it Mean to Boast in the Cross?

“To boast” is to express excessive pride in oneself or to speak extravagantly about oneself. Paul was saying that he would never brag about himself because everything he had become was because of the cross of Christ. He was but a worm and all praise went to Jesus Christ and His Cross. He wanted no glory for his preaching or how many had found the Lord because of it.

Paul’s heart cared nothing for the glory that came from fame. He cared nothing for the glory that came from riches. He cared nothing for the glory that came from status and power among men. He only cared about the glory of the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. – David Guzik

Enduring Word Bible Commentary Galatians Chapter 6

What Does This Have to Do With Me?

In short, everything.

I should “follow Christ as He followed Christ.” (1 Corinthians 1:11) Christians were called so because they were “little Christs”. Their lives exemplified the life Jesus has instructed them to live. The theme of Jesus’ life was humility. We’ve talked about humility on the blog before. And that is because it needs to be central in our lives.

This world likes to draw attention to SELF and boast about its accomplishments. Every spring we hear of dozens of award shows on television. Even in high school and elementary schools, were are celebrating accomplishments. But we know that all this will come to nothing on the day we stand before Christ.

Everything we do needs to be for the glory of Christ. Everything should lead others to know Christ. Paul wrote to another group, the Corinthians this message…

 For Christ didn’t send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News—and not with clever speech, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power.

1 Corinthians 1:17 NLT

And Again in His Second Letter

You see, we don’t go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus’ sake.

2 Corinthians 4:5 NLT

How Do We Boast in Christ in This Life?

1. When you wake in the morning, Praise Jesus for a new day before your feet hit the floor. (Psalm 143:8)
2. When you speak, use words that glorify God. Let others hear you praise Him. (Ephesians 4:29)
3. When you act, let the Holy Spirit be the one moving your body. (Acts 17:28)
4. In the evening, add at least three things to your gratitude list, praising God. (Psalm 119:164)

God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption” (1 Corinthians 1:26-30). Whatever good may come from our lives or ministry, we have no reason to boast because, humanly speaking, we are “weak,” “foolish,” “lowly,” and “despised.” All the glory goes to God and God alone (see Isaiah 42:8). What does it mean to boast in the Lord? | GotQuestions.org

I want to always give God glory when I receive accolades, pointing people to the One who is responsible for all that I do. I was impressed a few years ago when Chris Tomlin came to the awards podium and quoted Psalm 115:1. You may have thought it just lyrics to a song, but it comes straight from scripture!

Will you proclaim with me to intentionally boast in Christ?

Let’s have a boasting session. Leave me a comment “Boasting in Jesus”. Share how he saved you. Share what He has done recently in your life. I look forward to hearing from you.

While you write, listen to Chris Tomlin’s song, Not to Us

More on Humility

How to Pursue Humility as Followers of Christ

How to Live in Order to Please God

More From Our “As For Me….” Series

• Becoming an Intentional Messenger of God – Jeremiah 26:14-15
• Wellness: Becoming Intentionally Evergreen – Psalm 52:8
• Becoming Intentional about Boasting in Christ. – Galatians 6:14
• But as For me, Poor and in Pain – Psalm 69:29 Coming Soon

Remember to Give a “Boast” for Christ in the comments!

Until next time;

–Mandy

Mandy Farmer

Pastor’s Wife (retired) &  Chronic Pain Warrior blogs about how to make it through anything by relating her own life experiences to her writing. She is passionate about her love for the Lord and desires to spread that passion to others. She has a great desire to encourage women who are following behind her.

www.mandyandmichele.com