Matthew Henry Commentary 2 Corinthians 1:12-14

"For our glorifying is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and sincerity of God, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we behaved ourselves in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward. For we write no other things unto you, than what ye read or even acknowledge, and I hope ye will acknowledge unto the end: as also ye did acknowledge us in part, that we are your glorying, even as ye also are ours, in the day of our Lord Jesus." — 2 Corinthians 1:12-14 (ASV)

Though, as a sinner, the apostle could only rejoice and glory in Christ Jesus, yet, as a believer, he might rejoice and glory in truly being what he professed. Conscience testifies to the steady course and general pattern of one's life. By this, we may judge ourselves, and not by any single act.

Our conduct will be rightly ordered when we live and act under such a gracious principle in the heart. Having this, we may entrust our reputations to the Lord's hands, while still using appropriate means to defend them when the credibility of the gospel or our usefulness requires it.