No one likes listening to a braggart expound on his own accomplishments. In that case, the boasting is self-centered. But boasting in the Lord directs others to rejoice with the boaster. How many times have you been encouraged when you hear about how God met a need, brought a touch of healing, or lifted someone’s spirits? Boasting in the LORD (btw, the capital letters indicate the Covenant God of Israel) honors God and encourages others to see Him as the focus of their own living. I’m reminded of Jesus’ words during the Sermon on the Mount, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16 KJV). The purpose is not to elevate self, but to glorify the One who is the source of every good thing.