As a Father delights in his child, so I delight in My own, for those who know Me in truth, follow My ways. Kindness is abundant in their fruit, and righteousness is in their step. They seek to understand deeply My Word, and listen that My voice would be heard. Humbly do they live, without boasting of what has been granted, but breathing out praise of He who gives abundantly to those who are called by My Name, for they know the day is fleeting, and the strength in their arms wane. They see clearly the arm of the Lord in their yesterdays, and speak of My faithful hand tomorrow. They fear not the approaching storm; they stand firm in the torrent. Their countenance lifts the downcast, hope is in their eyes. And all strength and fortune acknowledged — not their own. In these I delight, for the love of the Father is their wealth.
Jeremiah 9:23-24 (ESV) – Thus says the Lord: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.”
Bottom Line: When you work hard for what you have, it is easy to forget that it all is ultimately a gift from God. The fact that we have been given life, have been born in a country that is blessed, have been given an education and countless opportunities . . . all a gift from God. In reality, we have no room to boast, and any boasting we do should be of the great provision of the Lord. He does not delight in the things He has given, or helped us to obtain. He delights in us knowing Him, and bearing fruit as we reflect His image of love. In that, He boasts in us.
