Give God Credit
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. -- Ephesians 2:8-9
What did you take credit for today? What did you brag about? What did you praise yourself for?
We’re taught to think highly of ourselves. And, really, that’s a good thing. It’s important to have healthy self-esteem. But it’s also important to remember that all good things come from God -- that includes our successes and bright, shining moments.
This verse came to mind the other day as I listened to a man bragging about the illustrious career he’d had. Truly, he’s had great success. But never once did this man of faith mention his Lord. Not one time did he give credit to God. He went on and on about working hard and knowing the right people. Those are important things but there are plenty of people who work hard and know the right people who never have success. At least not success as the world defines it.
A couple at our church appear to have it all. I’ve been shocked at the occasional nasty comment aimed at them. Why? Because they are braggers who make ugly comments about others in an effort to build themselves up. God gets no credit in their minds.
I don’t want anyone to misunderstand what I am saying here. It is important to work hard. It is important to use your talents for God’s glory. And it is important to acknowledge that you are the child of the King. It is not okay to take credit for things that come from God.
That talent you’re bragging about started with a gift from God. Yes, you worked hard to develop it but others could work equally hard and never achieve what you have achieved. Not because they didn’t try but because that was not God’s gift to them.
The same is true with leadership, teaching, or anything else. Work hard and seek God’s guidance to develop His gifts to you. But recognize His gifts and all those open doors that allowed you to develop into who you are today. Give credit to God and use His gifts to bring Him glory.
