Two men were talking, and one said, “I don’t mean to brag about my financial skills, but the bank calls every week to tell me my debt is outstanding.” The other said, “Well, I don’t want to brag either, but my psychologist says I have the biggest ego he’s ever seen.”

There’s something about bragging that displays immaturity. Paul had plenty to brag about—his heritage, his pedigree, his zeal, and his accomplishments. But he chose to live in humility and not allow pride to overtake him. Bragging comes to us more naturally than humility, just like weeds grow in a garden easier than vegetables. A garden needs to be cultivated, and God wants to cultivate our hearts so we brag less and worship more. The Bible says, “‘Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.’ For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends” (2 Corinthians 10:17-18, NIV).

The next time you feel like bragging about something, try this. Instead of speaking to someone else in pride, speak to God in thanksgiving. After all, He and He alone is the One who blessed you.

The surest mark of true conversion is humility.
J. C. Ryle