But far be it from me to boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Galatians 6:14 WEB
A genuine Christian demonstrates humility. Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, deflects any praise or glory for himself. Instead, he gives the glory to God and boasts in the cross of our Lord.
Jewish leaders, jealous of the effectiveness of the gospel message, attempted to strong-arm the Galatians into being circumcised. These leaders claimed that it was the only way to truly please the Lord. They did this in order to brag about the number of conversions they achieved rather than out of genuine concern. These men sought worldly approval and fame rather than to please God.
The Accomplishment of Christ
Paul indicates that he could brag about the number of conversions resulting from his ministry too. But in contrast to the insincerity of his detractors, Paul does not take credit for what the Lord accomplished through him. Instead, he boasts in the accomplishment of Christ on the cross.
Through the ministry of Jesus and his sacrifice, Paul says he is crucified to the world and the world is crucified to him. In other words, Paul does not need the approval of the world. He lives for Christ and to serve God.
Even today, some religious leaders teach that salvation comes from religious acts such as circumcision. In contrast, We learn from scripture that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. As we read in Ephesians 2:8, “for by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the grace of salvation through the cross of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Lead me to live my life in a way that pleases you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Love and Good Works
