THE BOASTER VS THE VICTOR

READING: 1 KINGS 20:7-12

Verse 11: “So the king of Israel answered and said, ‘Tell him, Let not the one who puts on his armor boast like the one who takes it off.’”

During the times of Old Testament events, those who went to war depended on their armor for protection. As they would put on their armor, they must have looked forward hopefully to the time they would take it off. The implication is that those who would be disabled or killed were not able to remove their armor. Those who were victorious would have that privilege. This understanding about putting on and taking off armor, lends meaning to the verse quoted above as it advises against bragging or boasting. This verse sharply distinguishes the boaster from the victor as judged by mortal combat. Today we can still readily distinguish between the victor and the boaster, and we don’t have to wait for the results of some war or combat that is yet to come. We who have chosen Jesus as  Savior are not boasters but victors. Our victory is already assured because He has seen to it! Because of Him, our testimony is “Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. Is there a proper and accepted way to boast?

2. How do you complete the phrase “Thanks be to God for”: