Characteristics of Love #4 – Not Boastful

“. . . (love) does not boast.. . .” I Corinthians 13:4 (NIV)

Boasting and bragging are ugly character traits. Often uttered subtly, they are an attempt to demean another in an effort to build up oneself. Little boys can “show off’ and get away with it, but a boastful adult is a reproach in anyone’s book.

Proverbs 27:2a says, “Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth.” If you will be patient and just faithfully continue in doing well, others WILL notice, and honor will be given where honor is due. SELF-praise is conceited and reveals a foundation of pride. Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

Guard your conversation with others to make sure that you are not talking too much about YOURSELF. Even if what you have to say is most exciting and they seem interested enough, you will demonstrate love by intentionally turning the conversation toward THEM. Discover something about THEM that you can boast about.

Godly love compels you to boast only of the accomplishments of someone else. Your praise of ANOTHER will cause God to smile upon YOU. . . then anything (good thing) could happen!

PRAY:
“Dear God, my boasting today is in YOU alone. I humble myself before You and worship Your holy Name.  Give me an attentive eye to recognize the good in others, that I may be an encouragement to them. Amen”

*11 Corinthians 10:17 (NIV) (paraphrased)