Twin Peaks

The scripture for today is Proverbs 27:2

 

Proverbs 27:2 Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.

 

Praise, to be worth anything, must be independent of the one receiving it. “Self-praise is no commendation.” Adam Clarke Our motivation for anything we do must not be to receive praise from others but to bring glory to God. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 While we must do things that are commendable, we do it for God’s glory and not our own. After all, it is not because of our own goodness that we are able to do anything. All that we are and all that we accomplish is because of the goodness of the Lord. Those who praise themselves are not only misguided in their self-exaltation, but they also demonstrate that they do not realize the true source of goodness. “Self-praise defiles the mouth.” Matthew Henry

 

To maintain a focus on Christ is the goal of every true believer. “For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” 2 Corinthians 10:12 “For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.” 2 Corinthians 10:18 The Lord commends the humble. The example of Christ is an example of humility, an example that we must follow.

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:5-8  

 

May the image of Christ be formed in us. May the spirit of humility be our portion. May we understand that even when others praise us, it is not us who are deserving; it is Christ and Christ alone.

 

God bless you as you continue in His service.

Tim