Mmm...boasty

Thus says the Lord: "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord."

I think pride is easy enough to have. I know I've mentioned it a few times. Maybe it's something I have a problem with...:/ (it definitely is:]) But I praise God He has shown me that. God gives us abilities and strengths not to bring glory to ourselves but to be used for Him. The only thing we should be proud of is that we know the Lord who practices justice, steadfast love, and righteousness. Praise God!

So I'm really into the Olympics. Not so much in following who wins what, etc. but more so into watching as much of it as I can. I love seeing people who probably have never been to Marietta, GA let alone speak English. It's a wonderful reminder of all that God has made. Anyway, I watch a lot of athletes boast in themselves (Mr. Bolt) and I watch a lot of athletes turn it back around to God (Miss Douglas). God gave them these gives not so they could boast in them but so that He could be seen. People get annoyed when athletes talk about God to much, but I personally find it so much more refreshing then hearing them go on and on about how great they are. I think one athlete actually said with his own mouth that he is the greatest ever. What kind of person says that about themselves? I personally have little respect for people who are that prideful. Maybe it's because I hate it when I have those thoughts about myself. Either way you slice it, whether you believe in God or not, no body is so awesome that they deserve to boast in themselves. No body. You can suggest names, but you will not convince me. Ain't no body who should be boasting because it just ain't classy.

Lord, control my prideful thoughts. Though I fear praying that You would humble me (because I think You've answered that pray well in the past - much to my shigrin) I ask that You would check my thoughts and convict my heart when I begin to boast in myself. Let me always remember who it is who has given me these gifts and talents. Let me never suggest they come from any other source. Let me not boast in my righteousness either because I have none apart from You. Let the only prideful words in my mouth be words of praise to You.

Amen. Amen. Amen.