Galatians Chapter 6, Verse 4
From BibleWiki
4: το δε εργον εαυτου δοκιμαζετω εκαστος και τοτε εις εαυτον μονον το καυχημα εξει και ουκ εις τον ετερον
4: But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have
rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
4: But let every one prove his own work: and so he shall have glory in
himself only and not in another.
But let every man prove. That is, try or examine in a proper manner. Let him form a proper estimate of what is due to himself, according to his real character. Let him compare himself with the word of God, and the infallible rule which he has given, and by which we are to be judged in the last great day. Comp. See "Rom 12:3"; See "1Cor 11:28;"; See "2Cor 13:5".
His own work. What he does. Let him form a fair and impartial estimate of his own character.
And then shall he have rejoicing. That is, he will be appropriately rewarded, and will meet with no disappointment. The man who forms an improper estimate of his own character will be sure to be disappointed. The man who examines himself, and who forms no extravagant expectation in regard to what is due to himself, will be appropriately rewarded, and will be made happy. If, by the careful examination of himself, he finds his life to be virtuous, and his course of conduct pure; if he has done no wrong to others, and if he finds evidence that he is a child of God, then he will have cause of rejoicing.
In himself alone. Comp. Prov 14:14: "A good man shall be satisfied from himself." The sentiment is, that he will find in himself a source of pure joy. He will not be dependent on the applause of others for happiness. In an approving conscience; in the evidence of the favour of God; in an honest effort to lead a pure and holy life, he will have happiness. The source of his joys will be within; and he will not be dependent -- as the man of ambition, and the man who thinks of himself more highly than he ought, will -- on the favours of a capricious multitude, and on the breath of popular applause.
And not in another. He will not be dependent on others for happiness,
