Of such a one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.
Barnes writes:
“Paul speaks in the third person. He chooses to keep himself directly out of view. And though he refers really to himself, yet he would not say this directly, but says that of such a man they would admit it would be proper to boast.”
The apostle Paul had so many enemies, one might argue he’s not the best example of how to get along with others while doing the work of the gospel. He had enemies among the Gentiles, enemies among his own countrymen—the Jews—and even enemies within the Christian faith, who opposed the idea of churches made up of different cultures.
Yet the Word of God establishes him as perhaps our prime example of ministry. From the start, we learn that it’s not possible to please most men, so we ought rather strive to please God. Someone will criticize the Christian no matter what tack we take in ministry.
Still, I find in this context a biblical preference in our conduct:
Keep self directly out of view.
Talk about what God is doing among men, but make little of self.
I think of the Gospel of John, which never mentions the writer’s own name.
When we must speak of ourselves, speak of our weaknesses—not our strengths.
Focus on what the Lord can do, not what we can do.
In my experience, there will always be people who attack any sign of confidence as arrogance, and any sign of weakness as being unfit for ministry. Among some people, we can’t win either way.
If they choose to attack us, let it be for our faith in and dependence upon the Lord—not for confidence in our flesh.
#GloryInWeakness #PleaseGodNotMen #MinistryByGrace #ChristNotSelf #FaithOverFlesh
When You Can’t Win: Please God Anyway
Are you tired of trying to please everyone—and still getting criticized?
The Apostle Paul shows us a better way: take yourself out of the spotlight and point everything to Christ.
🔎 Question for you:
Have you ever been misunderstood or attacked for doing right in ministry or Christian service? How did you respond?Drop your answer in the comments below.
📌 Today’s action step:
Speak boldly about what God is doing in someone else's life. Send an encouraging message, share a testimony publicly, or lift someone up in your church without mentioning yourself.
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