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“This is what the Lord says: ‘Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,’ declares the Lord.”
(Jeremiah 9:23-24)
Introduction
We live in an era where people measure their glory by what they own: cars, houses, physical appearance, fame, or social status. Social media has amplified this even more—everyone wants to show their best side, receive applause, and be recognized. But is this the true glory we should be seeking?
The Word of God reminds us that life is short. James 4:14 says: “What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” In other words, all this effort to look younger, more beautiful, or more successful can easily become meaningless in light of eternity.
1. The false glory of the world
Through Jeremiah, God warns us not to boast in human wisdom, physical strength, or riches.
Today, many do everything they can to look younger, undergo surgeries, follow extreme diets, and spend hours in front of the mirror. Others chase success and fame as if that alone could give meaning to life.
But in the end, all of this fades away. Beauty ages, wealth can be lost, fame is forgotten.
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 16:26: “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”
2. The danger of worshiping the body
In our generation, many have turned their bodies into an “idol,” chasing a perfection that does not exist.
Of course, taking care of our health is important, but the mistake lies in valuing the outside more than the inside. The body is temporary, but the soul is eternal.
Paul writes in 1 Timothy 4:8: “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
In other words, taking care of the body matters, but nurturing the soul and walking with God has eternal value.
3. The true reason to boast
Jeremiah gives us the answer: if there is anything we should boast about, it is in knowing the Lord and living to please Him.
This means that when we go somewhere, we should not seek the spotlight or our own glory. A Christian does not need to be the center of attention; our purpose is to glorify God through our actions, words, and testimony.
As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Conclusion
Life is brief. Everything the world values will eventually fade away. Human glory is fragile, but the glory of God is eternal.
Therefore, let us not seek to be remembered for our looks, fame, or wealth, but for the presence of Christ in our lives. May people, when they look at us, see Jesus reflected in our actions.
Call to Response
My invitation to you today is this: Where is your glory? Is it in what you have? What do others think of you?
Or is it in knowing the Lord, who is righteous, merciful, and eternal?
Decide today to live for the glory of God, not for the applause of the world. Because in the end, only what we do for the Lord will have eternal value.
Let's pray?
Lord my God and my Father,
I come before Your presence today, acknowledging that many times I have sought the glory of this world. Forgive me for valuing what is temporary more than Your eternal presence.
Help me understand that true glory is in knowing you and serving you.
May my life not be about seeking my own recognition but about reflecting Your light.
Remove all pride, vanity, and the desire for human applause from me.
Teach me to live for your glory and to focus my heart on the things above.
I surrender my life to you and declare that you are Lord over it.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
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