Being connected to God can feel powerful. Conquering insecurities and fears, gaining the courage to stand up for ourselves and others, gaining significant wisdom and knowledge… all of these can make us feel nearly invincible. But where are we giving credit? Who or what are we really celebrating? Yes, find joy in the little things, celebrate the victories (even the small ones), but pay attention to your focus after those achievements. It’s easy to slip into worshiping the overcoming itself or the feel of it. The same goes for acquiring knowledge or a sense of authority. Relishing power and success over the grace of God can slip into our lives so easily, and once it’s there, it can be hard to see and harder to push down to its rightful place. The real reason to be celebrating? Our relationship with God. Our future in Heaven. That Jesus is there with us every step of the way. Because it’s not about us, even though we’re out here putting in the work too. The reason we’re getting results is because He is working through us.

Consider these questions as you reflect on today’s reading:

What was the last life event or achievement you celebrated?

How did you celebrate?

How was God evident in that event in your life?