Can we brag about others?

2 Corinthians 8:24Show them your love, and prove to all the churches that our boasting about you is justified.

Paul described his warm words to other churches about the Corinthian church as “boasting.” In order that the word would not be misunderstood, he pointed out that he was telling the truth about them.

2 Thessalonians 1:4We proudly tell God’s other churches about your endurance and faithfulness in all the persecutions and hardships you are suffering.

What he called “boasting” about the Corinthian church, Paul called “proudly telling” about the Thessalonian Christians. When we truthfully bring a good report about others, we encourage both them and those who hear.

Proverbs 27:2Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth—a stranger, not your own lips.

Blowing your own horn is a form of bragging; praising the efforts of others is a good exercise in humility.

Proverbs 31:28-31Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: “There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!” Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.

What looks like bragging about others can at times simply be well-deserved praise. Proverbs 31 describes a family whose members realize that their wife and mother blesses them richly through her many good qualities. At the heart of this woman’s life is the fear of the Lord, which informs and motivates the way she lives. She is a woman worth celebrating!

2 Corinthians 7:14I had told [Titus] how proud I was of you—and you didn’t disappoint me. I have always told you the truth, and now my boasting to Titus has also proved true!

Paul realized the Corinthians had been a real encouragement to him, and he was quick to acknowledge that to others. It is good to call attention to God’s work in another person’s life. While calling attention to your own role in others’ accomplishments is bragging, simply praising others isn’t bragging.