Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Praiseworthy?

“He who tooteth not his own horn, the same shall be substituted,” was the favorite “proverb” of Ray O., a dear friend during my days in college. Whenever anyone would begin to describe their “greatness” or why they were “superior” to anyone, he would immediately reach for his Bible. He would furrow his brow, focus his eyes, and begin to fumble through the pages of the Word and say, “I know that verse is in here somewhere. I read it just this morning during my devotions. Oh well, trust me. You know it has to be here somewhere! It’s the truth and you know where to go for the truth.”
He was never able to find the verse, but we all knew what he was talking about. Some people, usually those who have accomplished little, want to make sure that we think they are “superheroes.” For whatever reason, perhaps fear of being overlooked or under-appreciated, they have the need to “bore” us with words that contradict the reality of their lives.
Perhaps Ray was looking for the proverb that supports his position: “The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise of others.” There are proven ways to refine metals to make certain that they contain no impurities. When we speak of ourselves, however, it is easy to forgo the refiner’s fire and praise ourselves to make good impressions. All of us want the respect and esteem of others. It is normal. But the most accurate observations of who we are comes from reading God’s Word and the observations of friends.
Prayer: Help us Father, to work diligently and with determination to develop a reputation that is worthy of Your Name. May others see Your Son in us and what we do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Proverbs 27:21 The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise of others. 

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