THE VERSE
In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience-- by word and deed.~Romans 15:18
THE THOUGHT
Paul is demonstrating true humility here. That may seem surprising, given that he is actually boasting of being proud of his work. On the surface, that might sound like arrogance. But look at what he is boasting in, and why. He has reason to be proud of his work "in Christ Jesus," for it is only in Christ that the work we do takes on any righteousness or significance. Apart from Christ, Paul knows, all his ministry efforts would be fruitless and shot through with sinful motives. Only “In Christ Jesus," therefore, does Paul have reason to boast of his work. Therefore, he says, he will only speak of what Christ has done through him. He knows that apart from Christ he can do nothing, but also that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens him. Either way, it is Jesus who is working through him, and it is Jesus who is receiving honor from Paul's labor.In boasting of ministry, Paul is glorifying not himself but Christ, who has worked through him. May we all have the same mindset as Paul! True humility, as C.S. Lewis said, can dispense with modesty, and instead boldly proclaim the glory of Christ.
THE PRAYER
Dear Jesus, Humble me. Help me to see that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my sinful nature, and that every modicum of good that I perform comes only from the power of Your Holy Spirit. Help me to abide in You, so that I can bear much fruit for the glory of Your Father.EXTENDED READING
John 15:1-8Romans 15:15-20
Philippians 4:11-13
THE QUOTE
“You may be able to compel people to maintain certain minimum standards by stressing duty, but the highest moral and spiritual achievements depend not upon a push but a pull. People must be charmed into righteousness.” ~Reinhold NiebuhrTHROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Review/Catch-Up
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