Boast the Most

Do not keep talking so proudly or let your mouth speak such arrogance, for the LORD is a God who knows, and by him deeds are weighed.

1st Samuel 2:3 NIV

Nobody likes a braggart. I can do this, and I can do that, and I can do the other thing, and I - I - I...  Well, you may be able to, but if so, it's because God gave you the talent...and the opportunity...and the connections...and the wherewithal to accomplish it. Any talents or giftings you have, you didn't get on your own. You may have worked to develop it, but even the ability to do that is a gift from God. We can't take any credit for it - or at least we shouldn't. I believe that Scripture reads, All glory TO GOD! (emphasis mine).

I am reminded of a story that was circulating through e-mail a few years back.

God is sitting in Heaven when a scientist says to Him, "Lord, we don't need You anymore. Science has finally figured out a way to create life out of nothing. In other words, we can now do what You did in the beginning."
"Oh, is that so? Tell me..." replies God.
"Well," says the scientist, "we can take dirt and form it into the likeness of You and put oxygen into it, thus creating a living, breathing man."
"Well, that's interesting. Show me."
So the scientist bends down to the earth and starts to mold the soil.
"Oh no, no, no..." interrupts God, "You said you don't need Me anymore."
"That's right," smirked the scientist. As he reached again for the dirt, God put His hand out and stopped him.
When the scientist looked questioningly at God, God simply said, "Create your own dirt."

Psalm 34:1-3 reads, I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together.

Prayer:

Father,

         Let us never forget it's only because of You that we are even able to breathe. When we boast, let it always be about You - the One most worth it. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen