Worthy of Praise
Posted 12/9/2002 6:29:09 AM
To finally finish my series on Philippians 4:8: "if there be any praise, think on these things."
Praise is one of those fine arts. If you go too far with it, you are in danger of becoming a flatterer; but if you don't do enough you are a mean ogre. There isn't anything complicated about praise itself, though, it's simply a matter of giving approbation, commending someone for something, recognizing that something good has been done.
Praise should be given liberally to others, but not sought after from others, rather from God. God is most interested in our hearts, and that's where true praise begins Rom 2:29. God will show his approval for your works in due time, in the best time, in the best way 1Cor 4:5 - so let him, whenever, possible.
On the other hand, governmental leaders have a responsibility to publicly recognize others for their work Rom 13:3, as a means of encouraging others to follow your good example, and putting to silence the ignorance of foolish men 1Peter 2:13-14. You may also develop a good reputation, which is worthy of praise, like Titus' companion in 2Cor 8:18.
It is God's will that we praise Him, agreeing with and approving of His work in our lives Eph 1:5-6, and has even given us the Holy Spirit to help us do just that! Eph 1:14. One way we can do this is by having a pure faith, tempered by the fire of trials 1Peter 1:6-7.
So, some things to think about:
- Start with a thankful, grateful heart, full of reasons to praise God and others
- Look for approval from God rather than from others
- Give encouraging words generously and truthfully, which means you have to pay attention to what others are doing in order to pick up on ways to commend them.
- It is God's will that you build a good praiseworthy reputation
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