“Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but a person is tested by being praised.” Proverbs 27:21 NLT
We know that we are often tested by trials in our lives. The Bible tells us that those trials are for our good. But what we may not often consider is that praise received can also test us. It is important that we recognize that the praise we receive needs to be “transferred to the Lord”. We may receive benefit, but praise doesn’t belong to us.
To “keep the praise” can be dangerous. Among the consequences are:
Becoming a people pleaser – Start modifying our behavior so that praise is received.
Having pride grow – Begin thinking more of ourselves that we ought.
Thinking that the glory belongs to us – When we keep the praise and begin thinking that we deserve it, we risk taking the glory instead of giving it to the Lord.
This week, be thankful for praise you may receive, but then quickly transfer it to the Lord.
In His Hands,
John
