I watched a documentary a few years back on the real Band of Brothers. One soldier humbly stated he only did what others would have done. That statement really stuck with me. His “the greatest generation” must have all been imbued with some kind of inner code calling them to deflect any and all self-aggrandizement.

In the same vein, many times Paul recalled and gave credit to the grace of God in his ministry (Rom 1:5; 12:3; 15:15; 1 Cor 3:10; 15:10; Gal 2:9; Eph 3:7) He did not think more highly of himself than he ought to think. It was only sound (sensible, sober) judgment based on his faith that got him through.

For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. Romans 12:3

It seems that what is done today is only to maximize one’s presence on social media. It’s mostly I did and said this and you didn’t. I was here and you weren’t. I understand the complexities of the world and you don’t. He’s a reprobate and I’m so much better than that.

Maybe the response to our extraordinary activities should be that I was only doing what others would do, only if the frame of reference is what other mature Christians would do, or better, and not to sound cliche, what Jesus world do..

That’s what Paul is alluding to, but in the context of using one’s spiritual gift or gifts.