She had the big expensive house and cars, had the finest clothes and was the head of her law firm. She came from a big Christian family but due to lack of time, she rarely got home except for the occasional holidays. When she did, she came with the biggest gifts trying to outdo her siblings and she always made sure to mention that she was the one taking care of their mom. Whenever her siblings asked for help, she never kept it to herself; she wanted the accolades. Soon, her invitations stopped to family functions and her few calls went unanswered because they were tired of the show. Her business started suffering, her friends stop coming by and when she needed someone, no one was there. One day, she has an accident that leaves her in a coma. During this time she is visited by God. She’s excited because she just knew He was going to praise her but she was wrong. She was ready to start bragging on this and that but God looked her over and He asked, “Where do I fit in your life?” She replied, “What do you mean? I’m doing what you said, I’m helping people.” God responds, “Do you ever give out of the goodness of your heart or is it all for show?” She says, “What difference does that make? I give to folk who beg and they never pay me back?” God asks, “Do you miss what you give?” She says, “No but-,” God cuts her off and asks, “Do you pay tithes?” She says, “No.” God asked, “When was the last time you went to church?” She lowers her head.

God replies, “When I established your path, it wasn’t for you to become so high that even I couldn’t reach you but it was because I knew the person you could be. I know the potential you have yet you’ve become someone I no longer recognize. Do you even miss your family?” She thought for a second and says, “They only call me when I can help them, they don’t love me; they won’t even answer my calls.” God opens her ears and she hears the plea of her loved ones. She weeps. God says, “My child, they love you; you’re the one unapproachable. It isn’t about the material things for they’ll be gone. It’s not about the praise from folk because if that’s what you need then surely you don’t need me. Yes, you may have more than the next but you’re still made the same inside. The only difference is what you’re filled with. My word says in 1 Corinthians 13:4 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” You shouldn’t have to brag, your work should speak for you; if you do good it’ll show and if you share your blessings, it shall be returned with added blessings.” She listened as the tears streamed down and she begged God’s forgiveness and for another chance to live a life pleasing in His sight. God granted her request.

The moral of the story … Your bragging rejects your blessing. Just because you have it all (right now), we’re still the same on the inside. Oh and all the stuff you do for show, it doesn’t count with God. You may have the lavish things but our caskets will be the same size and the hole we’re buried in will be dug the same depth. Be careful what you brag and boast about because it may be the reason your blessings are rejected!