Partner With Us

Week 7 - Day 4 - The Power Of The Cross

|

Devotions, The Power of The Cross
Today’s Devotion Spoken…

Title: Boasting in the Cross

Scripture: Galatians 6:14 (NKJV) – “But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”

Devotional:

The battle for our fundamental rights of bodily autonomy has been a huge growth experience for me personally. There is a certain notoriety in speaking out in such a public way. While some of it is toxic most is flattering. It’s an ego mine field. I feel that God made it clear to me that this was not about me but Him. When we understand this completely we can see how flattery too can become toxic if not understood.

It would have been tempting to stand in my own power and claim any glory but I learned a long time ago that I have no power and no glory. It all belongs to Him and not me. There is so much freedom in knowing this because it takes away our perceived need to perform for others. Placing people on pedestals is not good for them or us because we are all sinners and all fall short of God’s glory. We are all on this walk together and if we concentrate on walking in step just behind Jesus the He does all the hard work for us. All we must do is have faith in Him and all will be well regardless of the dark clouds on our horizons.

 Psalm 23:4 (NKJV):

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

There is freedom in boasting in the cross instead of self. Just think of how much time and energy we spend trying to impress each other and how damaging it is when we fail to meet each others and our own expectations.

In Galatians 6:14, the apostle Paul presents a radical perspective on boasting. Instead of boasting in earthly achievements, possessions, or status, he directs our attention to the cross of Jesus Christ. For Paul, the cross is not just a symbol of redemption but the focal point of his identity and purpose.

  1. Consider the implications of redirecting your pride and confidence from worldly accomplishments to the work of Christ on the cross. How does boasting in the cross reshape your values and priorities?
  2. Reflect on Paul’s assertion that through the cross, the world has been crucified to him and he to the world. How does your allegiance to Christ and His cross shape your interaction with the values and pursuits of the world around you?
  3. In what ways can you practically live out the principle of boasting in the cross?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Papa God.

Thank You for the cross of Jesus Christ, where Your love and grace were poured out for all humanity. Help me to boast only in the cross, finding my identity, security, and purpose in the finished work of Christ. May the reality of the cross transform my heart and renew my mind, empowering me to live a life that glorifies You and points others to the saving power of Jesus. In His name, I pray. Amen.

Graham Hood