Daily Devotions
Our Only Boast
Reading for December 8th: Galatians 4-6
But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ...
Galatians 6:14
Isaac Watts penned the words to this famous hymn:
When I survey the wondrous cross
on which the Prince of Glory died;
my richest gain I count but loss,
and pour contempt on all my pride.
In this world we tend to define ourselves by our accomplishments in life.
- The wealthy boasts in his riches.
- The educated boasts in his knowledge.
- The entrepreneur boasts in his businesses.
- The salesman boasts in his sales.
- The coach boasts in his victories.
- The parent boasts in his children.
But everything changes when one comes to the cross. First of all, there is a sacrificing of all we have. This does not necessarily mean we leave our vocation (1 Corinthians 7:20), but it does take on a different meaning. Instead of life being dedicated to a vocation, our vocation serves Christ who is our life (Colossians 3:4).
This change in perspective actually makes us work harder. We become a better parent, a better employee, a better coach, a better student, etc. Our hard work, however, will not be focused on selfish interests or glory, but rather it is completely directed and dedicated to the Lord.
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
that were an offering far too small;
love so amazing, so divine,
demands my soul, my life, my all.
