Praise - a test

Proverbs 27:21b (NIV) but man is tested by the praise he receives.

People, me included, like to be praised. "Hey, like your hair." "That dress looks nice on you." "I wish I could lead a Bible Study like you do." "I wish I had your voice." We take these as words of encouragement. We feel a pat on the back - job well done.

I never thought of praise as a test. But it is right there in the wisdom book of the Bible, Proverbs 27:21b. "but man is tested by the praise he receives." How can words of encouragement be a test? We don't get much additional guidance about this from the rest of that verse: "The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold". It is really a stand-alone verse as though we should know exactly what it means.

Here are my thoughts. Silver and gold go through refining processes (crucible and furnace) that make them pure. All the impurities or bad stuff comes out during the processing. I think this passage means that all of our bad stuff becomes evident when we are praised. We might puff up a little. We might accept praise like somehow we deserve it, like it is our doing. We may act as though anyone can do what we've just been praised for, like it is no big deal and therefore we diminish the gift and giver.

When we are praised, our character is exposed. We may be humble and gracious, thanking God for the origin of our ability. Or we may be boastful in our acceptance. This is the way we are tested when others praise us.

How do we "study" or prepare for this test? Make it a habit to thank God each time you are praised. You can make it public, or you can think Him silently. Either way you will become more humble and aware each time you react this way to praise.

I don't know the grade I receive on this test. I do know that I like being praised. I hope that my response is appropriate, not boastful or dismissive. I really enjoying praising God so maybe sometimes I do praise Him when I receive praise. God makes all things possible so all things I do are from Him.

Giver of all things, Thank you for gifting me with what You have gifted me with. Forgive me when I am boastful. Only You are worthy of praise. Amen

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