Paul’s first converts in Corinth were not from the respectable classes in that seaport city. As he reminds them, by human standards they were not wise, strong, or noble. But God chose them anyway because “my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord” (Is 55:8). Christians cannot boast before God because it is Jesus who is our wisdom and power and righteousness.
But we have no opportunity for complacency. God challenges us to live according to his ways, which Jesus set forth in the Beatitudes. The qualities God looks for are contrary to the goals of this world. Knowing that we cannot achieve this standard of living under our own power, we respond to God in gratitude for the grace given us by Jesus Christ by using the time, talent, and treasure entrusted to us in his service.
