Why is it important to praise others?

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

Proverbs 31:28Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her:

Proverbs 31:31Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.

Matthew 3:16-17After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.”

Matthew 25:21“The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’”

There is a difference between praising God, which is worship, and praising others, which is supporting and encouraging them through affirmation. It is important for us to feel that others care about us. Affirmation gives others a sense of worth, encouraging them to go on. But praising ourselves doesn’t produce encouragement, nor is it appreciated by others.