Jeremiah 9:23-24 (KJV)
Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord.
The world often encourages us to take pride in our wisdom, strength, and wealth. But if there is any boasting, it should be in the higher premium on knowing Him personally and living a life that reflects His love, righteousness, justice, and mercy. God reminds us that these are fleeting and ultimately insignificant compared to the eternal value of knowing Him. True fulfillment and purpose come from understanding and experiencing God’s character. True life on earth is knowing God through His Son Jesus Christ. Our understanding and knowing of God produces strength and exploits. God delights in steadfast love, justice, and righteousness. These are not just attributes of God but also qualities He desires to see reflected in our lives. By knowing God, we align ourselves with His heart and ways, allowing His love and justice to flow through us to others. The life of God flowing through us will make us the light of the world, causing those in darkness to see and bring joy to the lives of many others. Paul said in Galatians 6:14, “Far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”
God created man and provided salvation for sinners so that we can confidently boast in Him. God is more interested in our relationship with Him, which is His Will for us. God’s Will is for us to understand and know Him and it starts by coming to know Him personally through His Son Jesus Christ. As we know Him more intimately, we also know His Will for our lives. God is not looking for us to crack a formula, but to develop a relationship for there is no greater life, no greater joy than to boast in Him! 1 Corinthians 1:25 says, “The foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” In other words, it is a great tragedy when our search for power and wisdom stops short of God because God is a treasure of power and wisdom infinitely more significant than anything that excites us. Therefore, as we boast in the LORD, we grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As Christians, we are not permitted to depend on our own wisdom, might, and riches, but rather, our boasting be in understanding and knowing Jesus, for He is gracious and full of unmerited favor toward us, and He executes justice against all injustices.
Beloved, God is speaking in these words very clearly, and what He is saying is: turn this moment from all boasting in yourself. Don’t seek your pleasure in your wisdom, strength, looks, or achievements anymore, but only boast in Him. As a believer in Christ Jesus, you have been given the precious gift of the Holy Spirit, who will guide you into all truth, speak to you, give you the words you need to speak, and lead you in the ways of God. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. You’ll find yourselves in the Will of God as you learn more about Him through the Word of God and grow in your relationship with Him daily through prayer and fellowship with Him. Practice steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in your daily interactions. Shift your focus from self-reliance to God-reliance. In the exercise of these attributes, God chiefly delights; seek it diligently! Remember, your greatest boast is not your abilities or accomplishments but your relationship with God.
O LORD, thank You for Your Word, I desire today to understand and know You more in Jesus’ Name.