I joke about getting a swelled head when someone provides praise for the work that I have done. I fell as though the work I do is just part of the job, although I would be lying if I said I did not need the praise. The reality is that I appreciate the acknowledgment that I have actually performed a task or done a job that was recognized as being beneficial to some in some way. The thing is that I have to remember that I am not doing things to be praised, but as a demonstration of the work I am doing for the LORD.
“21The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold,
and a man is tested by his praise.” — Proverbs 27:21 (ESV)
This morning as I was continuing my study on “praise”, I was reminded that how I give and receive praise are of great importance. I have to me sincere in each of the actions, giving and receiving. I have to be sure that when giving praise, it is for work done in earnest and not just lip service to manipulate another person. I have to be sure that I do not get the swelled head when receiving praise. I have to be diligent to continue to do the work of Christ without the expectation of anything in return from those of this world.
As noted in the verse above, silver and gold are made more valuable when they make it through the refining process. It takes the heat to remove the impurities and leave something that is of more value. It is part of the process to be refined into something of more value. The same is true of me. I have to endure the heat to remove any impurities of pride and manipulation. I have be sincere and humble in my giving and receiving of praise. I have to remember that it is not about building myself up, but about building of others.
I am reminded of my 4th personal value: “Encourage: Instill a higher level of confidence and growth for all. Leading them to think, feel, and act more positively with themselves and others.” It is about the others and not me. I am here to ensure that others are grown and that sometimes means that I will be working behind the scenes so that they can find the stage. The praise I may receive is not what I seek, it is the growth of the others where I find joy.
How are you giving or receiving praise? Are you finding yourself possibly manipulating or prideful with your giving or receiving of praise? What if you were to simply give praise to build others up and receive praise humbly knowing it is not about you, but about others?
Trevor's Thoughts 