The Test of Praise

God doesn’t want us to see our achievements and success as things we acquired through our own strength or head-knowledge. Rather, He wants us to always give Him glory and praise. Even when people praise us, we must return all the glory and praise to Him. Let’s see the book of Proverbs:

Prov. 27:21 (NKJV)

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The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, And a man is valued by what others say of him.

Prov. 27:21 (BSB)

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A crucible for silver and a furnace for gold, but a man is tested by the praise accorded him.

The two translations of the same Bible verse are deliberate. Recently, as I read that verse, something struck my heart and the Lord began to explain this scripture to me. What this scripture is saying is this: just as silver and gold (which are precious metals) go through a crucible and furnace (fire) when they are being refined, in like manner, everyone will be tested by the praise people give to them. A crucible is a heat-resistant container used to melt metals. Praise means to express admiration or approval of the achievement or characteristics of a person or thing. When people praise us for our achievements or success, this is a test. Our attitude and response to this praise will determine if we are really as good as we should be and it would also determine whether we pass or fail this test.

When we receive people’s praise and begin to believe that those achievements we made are a result of our hard work, wisdom or knowledge, we have failed the test. Our response rather should be to not see ourselves as achievers and see God as the achiever who achieved success through us. Child of God, don’t be a vain-glorious person. Don’t allow the praise of people to make you swell with pride. Humble yourself and give all the glory to God. Apostle Paul did not let people’s praise make him proud and that’s why he was able to say “But by the grace of God, I am what I am.” 1 Cor. 15:10.

If you haven’t given your life to Jesus, make the most of this opportunity and do this now:

“Lord Jesus, I know I’m a sinner and come to you today. I repent of my sins and confess them to you (mention them). Jesus, I accept you today as my personal Lord and Saviour. I promise to serve you all my days.”

If you prayed this prayer sincerely, search for a Bible-believing church of your choice and begin to fellowship there. Read your Bible and pray every day. You can reach me through apostlepaul@pkgm.org. May God give you the grace to never become proud of your achievement but to continually give Him all the glory in everything you do.