“The LORD proclaims: the learned should not boast of their knowledge, nor warriors boast of their might, nor the rich boast of their wealth. No, those who boast should boast in this: that they understand and know me. I am the LORD who acts with kindness, justice, and righteousness in the world, and I delight in these things, declares the LORD” (‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭CEB‬‬).

Joe had the strength of ten 2 year olds. He never smiled. He never took off his camouflage jacket. He was born with the beginnings of a mustache. In a corner of the church nursery, blending in with the plastic foliage, he would wait patiently until I finished constructing my block tower. Then, with unstoppable force, he would kick and punch my masterpiece until every last block was flat on the carpet.

Now Joe was just being a toddler, but there are fully grown adults who use their intelligence, power, and resources to tear down instead of build up. What’s more, their brutish ways are often encouraged by disenfranchised masses who just want to watch the world burn.

What good is knowledge, strength or riches if they are only used to contribute to chaos? Our self-worth should come from our relationship with the living God, the Lord who acts with kindness, justice, and righteousness to create a world we can be proud of.

Dear God, help us delight in the things you delight in. Amen.