When The Story Becomes About Me
Learning To Boast In Love
"Love does not boast." 1 Corinthians 13:4
When Something Good Happens
Many years ago, I was part of planting a church that began growing very quickly. Within the first year or two, a national publication recognized us as one of the fastest-growing churches in America.
God was doing beautiful things, and I was excited about what was happening. Somewhere in that excitement, though, I began talking a little too much about the recognition we had received.
I remember telling a friend about it when I sensed the Holy Spirit gently interrupting me.
“This is about love, not fame.”
Back To The Father's Lap
There was no condemnation in those words. I didn't feel pushed away from God or ashamed of what I had done. His kindness simply drew me back to the Father's lap and reminded me what had been happening all along.
Jesus was being revealed as people experienced His love, and that love was transforming lives. The beauty wasn't how quickly a church was growing or who happened to notice; the beauty was watching people discover the Father who had always loved them.
When Love Gets The Glory
Paul's words, “Love does not boast,” take me right back to that conversation with the Holy Spirit.
There is nothing wrong with celebrating something beautiful God has allowed us to participate in. But celebration can so easily become something else when I begin needing the story to say something about me.
The question that still helps me is simple: When I tell the story, am I hoping you notice me, or am I hoping you see Him?
Something Worth Boasting About
That gentle correction has remained a gift to me. The Holy Spirit wasn't taking away my joy in what was happening; He was reminding me where the joy belonged.
I still love celebrating what God is doing, especially when His love becomes visible in someone's life. I just want the story to keep pointing toward the One whose love made the story possible.
So, if you ever catch me boasting, I hope it's about Him—His kindness, His faithfulness, and His perfect love for every person we meet.
This is still about love, not fame.
Reflection
What do the stories I tell reveal about where I'm finding my significance?
Can I celebrate what God is doing without needing the attention for myself?
What about Abba's love is worth boasting about today?
Prayer
Abba Father, thank You for Your kindness that always leads me back into Your arms. If I boast, let it be about You and Your perfect love. Amen.