The Praise Test
As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise. Proverbs 27:21 (KJV)
Do you do the things you do so people will praise you and pat you on the back? Do you do it to be seen of men, to gain favor, to get a position, to be well thought of or feel important? As high temperatures test metals identify itheir quality or worth, we are tested by the praise we receive.
Will we get a big head, become prideful, and say, “Look what I have done?” We will think we are really somebody? The praise test shows a lot about one’s character. When people compliment us, will we give all the praise and glory to God? Will we recognize how God has gifted us to do what we do or will we allow it to make us think more highly of ourselves than we ought?
Ask yourself, “Why do I do what I do? Is it to get praise and recognition for myself or for God?”
Some people will not notice us, compliment us, or thank us for a job well done- and that is a test as well. We must pass both tests with humility and by giving the praise and honor to God. As we do all things as unto the Lord and for His glory, He will reward us. And God’s praise is to be valued more than any other praise we could get!
