It is not the individuals who commend themselves who are approved, but the person the Lord commends. 2 Corinthians 10:18 Self-condemnation and self-commendation are both unwise. When we condemn ourselves, we imply that Jesus’ death for us was inadequate. But God raised him from the dead to prove that it was. So if God does … Continue reading
Do not judge anyone before the time when the Lord comes. He will reveal the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the intentions of our hearts; then our praise will come to us from God. 1 Corinthians 4:5 Impatience often causes us not to gather enough information. Incomplete information leads to misunderstanding, misdiagnosis, and … Continue reading
While rejoicing in the salvation which is coming, you suffer necessary but temporary trials, so that in the genuineness of your faith—which is much more valuable than fire-tested gold—you will find praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:5–7 Olympic gold medalists resemble the gold they pursue. Olympic gold only … Continue reading
The centurion said, “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” … When Jesus heard this, he marveled and exclaimed, “I have not found such great faith with anyone in Israel.” Matthew 8:8–10 We know that during Jesus’ three years of ministry in Israel, he traveled around the country proclaiming the good news … Continue reading
If you accept praise from one another and don’t seek the praise that comes from the one God, you can’t believe me. John 5:44 Abraham had a choice when he returned from the battle with the four kings: accept physical tokens of gratitude from the King of Sodom or look to the Almighty for his … Continue reading
Scripture contains many reminders that it is right and wise to praise God. But Scripture also contains promises that we can expect praise from God. As every good father longs for his children to succeed, and eagerly anticipates affirming them when they do; so our heavenly Father encourages us to live in a way that … Continue reading
God built his sanctuary like the heights, like the earth which he has founded forever. He also chose David his servant … to shepherd Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance. So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands. Psalm 78:69–72 Father, you created in … Continue reading
If we say that we have fellowship with God and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. … Continue reading
Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier. Also if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to … Continue reading
The seed which fell among the thorns are individuals who have heard the Word, but let the worries and riches and pleasures of this life choke it out, so they produce no mature fruit. But the seed in the good soil are the ones who hear the Word with a noble and good heart, hold … Continue reading