“It is possible to have a right position yet be entirely wrong to share it.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – July 16, 2022
On behalf of this man I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses— though if I should wish to boast, I would not be a fool, for I would be speaking the truth; but I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me. 2 Corinthians 12:5-6, ESV
If we believe something to be true, our near universal temptation is to speak that truth into the world. If you doubt this statement, spend a few minutes on social media, especially in times of great public debate or controversy. You will be “blessed” with a flood of opinions and pronouncements for or against a never-ending stream of issues. The details may change week by week, yet the perceived need to voice our truths is a persistent challenge.
In 2 Corinthians 12, we encounter St. Paul wrestling with this question of truth and the elevation of self. As he reflects upon the reality of his life with Christ, he is objectively true to point out the intensity of his suffering and the lengths to which he went to share the love of God in Christ with others. If anyone could with great confidence proclaim the truth and validity of their position, it was Paul! As he says, were he to boast, he would be no fool but speaking words of truth. And yet, what does he say? “I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me” (2 Corinthians 12:6).
It is possible to have a right position yet be entirely wrong to share it.
This, I believe, is the wisdom Paul offers to each of us today. Might his witness encourage us to rediscover the freedom of restraint? You and I should not feel the pressure to comment on every situation that comes our way. And when we do speak out and share publicly, today’s passage invites a healthy dose of self-reflection: “Am I speaking this truth to elevate other’s opinions of myself?” “Do I speak truth in love and for the good of my neighbor?” “Am I simply trying to preserve my own reputation?”
Growth in the way of truth is never a license to boast. In fact, if arrogant boasting is the fruit of your journey, it may be worth double checking the path you are on! True wisdom and faithful discipleship will always result in deeper humility and an unwavering commitment to Christ and the elevation of his name. Let us never get in the way!
Prayer
Father, teach us the way of humility and the freedom that is found in showing restraint and taking the lesser seat so that we may honor others and elevate your name, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Application
The next time you are tempted to publicly speak out a truth about yourself or the world, pause and ask yourself the reflective questions listed above.
Related Reading
Proverbs 17:28; Ephesians 4:29; James 1:19-20
Worship Resource
David Funk: Holy and Anointed One
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