Day 27 – Read Proverbs 27
How to Have Joy by Praising Others
As our family packed into our white minivan, my kids swelled with pride sharing their victories at the swim meet. “Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth,” I exclaimed. “I know, Daddy,” my son sheepishly replied.
Everyone wants to be acknowledged and praised. Sharing what God has done in our lives is terrific, but sharing to inflate our egos is damaging. Here are three ways to avoid self-exaltation’s noose, and have joy by praising others:
1. Press pause on personal puff-ups.
As a parent, husband, and worker, I struggle with pride and lose focus when I expect praise from others. But if we resist the drug of self-flattery by elevating our view of God through reading His Word (Psalm 139:1-16), our desire for approval from others declines (2 Corinthians 5:9).
Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth—a stranger, not your own lips. – Proverbs 27:2 NLT
When we receive our validation, love, and acceptance from God first, it diminishes our need to be praised by others. And as our longing for human praise decreases, our love for others increases.
2. Point outside yourself by praising others.
Share the beautiful aroma of grace by praising someone’s attitude, parenting advice, discipline, compassion, work ethic, and courage. You will discover a new source of joy in your life by telling others, “I love working with you,” “You encourage me,” and “Your attitude empowers me.”
3. Participate with a posture that uplifts people.
Anxiety flies away and joy enters our souls when we serve others. Assist someone on a project, clean the house, volunteer at your church or community, and watch joy flood your heart. Serving is true greatness on display.
Friends, there are mountain-loads of grace available if we have fallen into the trap of self-exaltation. Find refreshment, knowing that Jesus’ forgiveness is more significant than our sinful pride. He is ready to forgive as we acknowledge our tendency to exalt ourselves. Let’s encourage and serve others, so they are empowered, our joy is heightened, and people sees how we make much of Jesus in a world that needs Him.
Dig Deeper
1. How can praising others’ strengths minimize pride in your life?
2. What’s one way you can honor someone in your life this week?
