Two things that keep popping in my head these days…
1) Boast only in the Lord, not in myself. In fact, I read today at lunch on the Desiring God blog:
“My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad” (Psalm 34:2).
It’s so easy to pat yourself on the back, but that does not bring glory to God. Boast in Him alone.
2) We need not worry about judging people or making sure that people receive their punishment for every little thing that they do that we don’t agree with. People are innately sinful – expect them to fall short of the mark – encourage them to strive for excellence.
“Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you;
he rises to show you compassion.
For the LORD is a God of justice.
Blessed are all who wait for him!” (Isaiah 30:18 )
