When someone compliments me, I was taught to humbly reply, “Thank you.”
Unfortunately, more and more people, from celebrities to school children are bragging about themselves and responding “I know” when complimented.
There were people in the early church who praised themselves and Paul said: “When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.” 2 Corinthians 10:12
Proverbs 27:2 is also good advice: “Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth--a stranger, not your own lips.”
We Christians don’t live for human praise. We’re waiting for the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). “For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” 2 Corinthians 10:18
So we view ourselves realistically, according to the most important aspect of our character: our faith (Romans 12:3).
And when complimented, we humbly reply, “Thank you,” knowing that God is the source of every good quality we possess.
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Bible Love Notes
Thank you for posting this.
ReplyDeleteI agree with this devotional!
ReplyDeleteI have a dilemma, though. My mom and sister and I sing at church, regularly. People tend to go on and on about "how beautiful you all harmonize" and tell us that when they see our name in the program, they are so excited to hear us. We do say a humble "Thank you," but wonder if we should say more about using the gift that we know comes from God and blesses us with as much joy as it seems to bring them.
Thank you for your ministry!
I don't think you need to say anything more than "Thank you."
DeleteYou can always add something like "We are grateful that God has allowed us to use this gift to bless you." or something like that. But you need not be ashamed of the compliments.
Instead of thank you, I always say praise the Lord.
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