For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?

1 Corinthians 4: 7

“Thanks, I can take from here” is a phrase I’ve sometimes used to say that I will take over some responsibility or task. I’ve said it myself when I am in the learning process since I am anxious to be on my own.

The phrase speaks of self-assurance, self-confidence, and self-reliance.  Notice the emphasis on self.  Now, while those may be good attributes in many parts of life, reliance on self is actually a weakness in our spiritual lives.

In the verse above, Paul asks three rhetorical questions of the believers in Corinthians to point out that their “strength” is anything but. We do nothing to contribute to Christ’s sacrifice, so we have no right to boast as if we are anything special. 

Of the three questions, I think the second presents a significant opportunity to give us a reality check – what do you have that you did not receive? The answer should cause us to humble ourselves and be grateful to the Grace of God.