Love does not boast (v.4)

“Love does not boast.” 1 Corinthians 13:4

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This word “boast” appears only here in the New Testament. It means to grow large but without substance – to be a windbag. Love does not seek to be showy or to draw attention to our achievements.

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The 19th century chemist, William Perkins, invented a process that led to fame, fortune and a knighthood. Yet on his deathbed he recited the hymn-verse, “When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of glory died, my richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride.” And then commented, “Proud? Who could be proud?”

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It’s in the knowledge that we are made and loved by God that all of us can hold our heads up high with dignity. That is indeed something to boast of, but it is not of ourselves. And knowing too that God loved us so much that he sent his only Son to die for us (John 3:16) is further reason for us to be elevated by God’s love whilst also being humbled by what he has done for us. “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal.6:14).