Tuesday, December 25 I do nothing of my own initiative; but just as the Father taught me, I speak these things.​—John 8:28.

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, December 25

I do nothing of my own initiative; but just as the Father taught me, I speak these things.—John 8:28.

 

We win people’s hearts, not by boasting or drawing undue attention to ourselves, but by displaying a “quiet and mild spirit.” (1 Pet. 3:3, 4; Jer. 9:23, 24) Vain sentiments in our hearts will eventually show up in our actions. We might drop hints, for example, implying that we enjoy special privileges, possess inside information, or have special relationships with responsible brothers. Or we might explain things in such a way that only we get the credit for ideas or accomplishments that others also contributed to. Jesus set a wonderful example. A good portion of what he said was either a quotation from or an allusion to the Hebrew Scriptures. He modestly spoke that way so that his hearers would know that what he said was coming from Jehovah and was not the product of his own intellect or wisdom. w17.01 4:12

[Andross]

Sometimes it can be hard to speak with modesty. We have to train ourselves to do so. Everyone wants to feel special around their freinds and family. It is something I have to contend with daily.

[Doug]

The commentary on John 8:28 is among the best ever. "Sentiments in our hearts will eventually show up in our actions".  Oh, so true.

 

Along the same line of thought, another text commented "Our choices reveal more about us than do our abilities" .

 

Small personal experience;  I gave the memorial talk for my mother in 2016. Needless to say, it was an intense experience. Once it was over, several came up to me to say they really appreciated the talk and the personal touch.  I was SO relieved that all I could say was 'I worked so hard on that talk'.

Upon reflection, I regretted that comment, I should have given all credit to Jehovah. Instead of making it about me, how much work I put in.

I've apologized to Jehovah for my indiscretion.