How can you emulate Paul's example of boasting in Christ from Romans 15:17? Verse at a Glance “Therefore I exult in Christ Jesus in my service to God.” (Romans 15:17) What Paul Means by “Boasting in Christ” • Paul’s “boast” is not self-congratulation; it is a joyful celebration of what Christ has done through him (Romans 15:18). • This attitude echoes Scripture’s consistent call: – “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:31; 2 Corinthians 10:17) – “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 6:14) • Boasting in Christ keeps pride in check and redirects praise to the rightful source. Why It Matters Today • We naturally drift toward spotlighting our achievements. • Christ-centered boasting reminds us that every good work, gift, and success flows from His grace (1 Corinthians 15:10; John 15:5). • It turns testimonies into worship rather than self-promotion. Practical Ways to Boast in Christ 1. Highlight God’s work, not your résumé – When sharing victories, phrase them as “Look what the Lord has done” rather than “Look what I managed.” 2. Tie personal stories to the gospel – Explain how Christ’s death and resurrection made change possible (Galatians 6:14). 3. Use Scripture as your soundtrack – Weave verses like Jeremiah 9:23-24 into conversations so listeners hear God’s own words behind your joy. 4. Celebrate others’ fruit as Christ’s fruit – Commend brothers and sisters by pointing out how Jesus is evident in them, avoiding comparison. 5. Redirect praise immediately – Whenever complimented, acknowledge the kindness and then steer attention to God’s enabling grace (1 Peter 4:11). Guardrails to Keep the Spotlight on Jesus • Check motive: Am I sharing to make Christ famous or to polish my image? • Check language: Do my words magnify His name more than mine? • Check gratitude: Am I as amazed by God’s work in small moments as in big ones? Living It Out This Week • Write down one recent win and rename it as Christ’s achievement. • Tell a friend how Jesus, not willpower, fueled that moment. • Pray Psalm 115:1 aloud: “Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory.” |
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