Worthwhile Praise

Read Proverbs 27

Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth—a stranger, not your own lips.

Proverbs 27:2

How simple, yet how profound! We all know people who, often to cover their insecurities, are quick to tell us all their accomplishments. Such people rarely receive words of praise from us, for we resist praising someone who is always praising himself or herself.

On the other hand, many people who certainly deserve praise humbly refuse to shower themselves with kudos. We are often surprised to discover the depth of such people, and the breadth of their accomplishments. We give praise so that others can know about them as well. What a joy it is to give well-deserved praise to someone who hasn’t sought it!

We should strive to be humble people. When we don’t draw attention to ourselves with self-centered praise, we allow others to do it for us. But even if no one notices our efforts or accomplishments, we know that God sees and is pleased with our hard work for him. Ultimately, his praise is the most important of all.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Humility accepts delayed praise.

Today, Lord, may I do your work patiently, not seeking praise but knowing that you are pleased.