II Thessalonians 1:4
“therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure.”
This is the second entry on “speaking proudly of you”. The last time we focused on an initial reason why the Lord wants to do this for us. He wants to boost us and our confidence. Today, we will look at the end reason for it, for sharing Christ and bringing God glory.
It’s easy to miss the first part. My church upbringing was self deprecating. They skipped how the Lord wants to fill us and boost our confidence and jumped strait to glorifying God. However, we bring God more glory when we are full, happy and functioning well.
How do we glorify God? We do so with our lives and testimonies. We spend our days working, going to school, raising children and maintaining a home. We live life and intersect with many people. They know us at varying levels. The challenges of life hit us and those around us. Our response brings God glory.
We may not be perfect in our reactions. There may be friction. However, over time we grow in humility and grace. Paul speaks of how we are the fragrance of Christ (II Corinthians 2:15). The grace, joy, peace and confidence of our lives blesses others. That is the best testimony.
Our lives bring glory to God by being attractive. Jesus says that we are “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-16). Salt brings flavor and light illuminates. Both are very important to us all. In a spiritual sense our lives are to be an interesting spice. In verse 16, he says “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”
God is proud of us and wants to share that. Not in a boastful, “I’m better than you” manner. The Lord makes it happen. It won’t come from us. There is a phrase, “Let another man praise thee”. That’s how it works. We won’t broadcast our own accomplishments. He will make known that which would be helpful for His kingdom.
Lord, thank You that You are proud of us and want others to know that. Thank You that You use us to bring glory to Your kingdom. Let our words and deeds bring honor to You.