FROM THE TIME we are little children through the time of maturity and beyond, we are afflicted with the need to be praised. In many respects, there is very little difference between the questions “see how well I colored between the lines?” and “did everyone notice that under my leadership the company’s profits increased 17% in the technical manufacturing sector during the third quarter?” We want to be affirmed, and to know, by knowing others know, that our lives have meaning, value, and purpose. Wise parents use praise as a positive form of discipline for enhancing the attitudes and performance of their children. The bible tells parents, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” (Prov. 22:6)
That same powerful motivational force works well on us, and for us, throughout our lives. We want it, seek it—got to have it. Ken Blanchard, in his classic small book on leadership, “The One Minute Manager,” advises that managers in the workforce should wander around their ‘domain’ and find people doing something right and simply praise them for it. There is statistically verifiable data that this is a significant factor in increasing a company’s morale and efficiency, as well as their bottom line. Obviously, there is more to running a successful company than praising people, but the point is made: praise is an effective motivating force.
There is a vast difference, however, between giving praise and seeking praise. The Bible sees praise-seeking quite differently, especially in respect to the call God places on his servants in their ministry. Jesus rebuked the actions of the scribes and Pharisees, teaching his disciples, “The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matt. 23:11) Not many who truly serve the Lord would openly value any of the activities of the world above those activities that minister to the family of God, yet many of those same servants seek the praise of men for the duties that they teach, or lead, or personally perform in the service of their God. “Don’t miss my preaching series on humility; it will change your life!” Inferred is a high personal skillset. “Our giving is up 12% this year over last year.” Inferred is gifted and inspirational leadership. “Mary is our evangelist of the year; she has won nine souls to the Lord.” Inferred is a model that sets a standard for commitment to the church. While all these statements may be true, it may be better to let others say them. And, to be cautious in hearing them said about us; if people tell us often enough that we can walk on water, we may be led to try it. Pride remains one of the seven deadly sins.
Jesus addresses the master’s response to the duties of a servant, one who has done what is required of him, in this way: “Would he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do? So, you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’” (Luke 17:9-10)
This is not to say that God does not lavishly praise and bless those who serve him, and take pride in them as a Father would a beloved child, for he does—in his way and in his timing. But this should be, and is, a check on personal pride rooted in performance values. What is the underlying motivation? It is easy to obtain the hollow praise of men, and have that last for a time; how much better it is to work for a heavenly reward, and to live in clear conscience before both God and men. The ultimate praise is this: “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matt. 25:21)
Paul’s journey from Pharisaical persecutor of the church (cf. Acts 8:1-3) to venerated martyr of faith in Christ enables him to share hard-earned wisdom about being a disciple of Jesus. “So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God. Those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. Therefore, judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.” (1 Cor. 4:1-5) Elsewhere he adds this additional sobering thought: “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him.” (Phil. 1:27-29)
As each of us contemplates how best to live our lives—and how to live our best life—perhaps these poetic lines sum up for us an aphorism to guide our journey: *“Only one life, ’twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.” Better, however, this biblical quote. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)
Q. Am I driven to serve, or driven to be seen?
*C. T. Studd, “Only One Life.” 20 th C. English evangelist (shaped by 1870’s Keswick Convention).
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