One minute read.
Daily Reading: Ezekiel 33:1-34:31, Hebrews 13:1-25, Psalm 115:1-18, Proverbs 27:21-22
Daily Verse: “The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and a man is tested by his praise.” Prov. 27:21
Public opinion.
How a person receives praise tells a lot about their character. Receiving public accolades tests people. When David returned after killing Goliath, the conquering hero, the women danced in the street, singing:
“Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousand.” 1 Sam. 18:7
Jealousy consumed Saul, and David received more praise than him. As a result, the bitter dispute between the two began, and David had to flee for his life from Saul. One man handled the praise; the other didn’t.
How a person handles public opinion, whether bad or good, tells a lot about their qualities. Basing your self-worth on what others think of you doesn’t work. People’s opinions change constantly, but God’s doesn’t, know what He feels about you. Base your value on how the Lord thinks of you instead of people.
Opinions change. What people praise others for one day, they curse them for another. Trust God’s opinion and let the rest go.
Lord, forgive us prideful moments when we don’t receive praise well. Please help us stay centered on You, not allowing public opinion to sway us from our path. Let us become more like Jesus each day. IJNIP. Amen
