A Test!

The durability or quality of things is tested by various means. There are heat tests, stress tests, tests through submission to the elements (weather), etc. Similar testing reveals the true essence of our being as well. How does our life stand up?

Solomon stated. . .
"The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and A MAN IS TESTED BY HIS PRAISE." ( Proverbs 27:21 ESV)

Heat is used to test as well as refine silver and gold. When we face trials in life we may feel we are also being tested by fire and how we come through the challenges reveals something about our character. However, even the PRAISE we receive can create a real challenge and reveal what our character truly is. PRAISE can do a variety of things to people. It can encourage them, inflate them, or influence by flattery to go a certain direction regardless of whether it is right or not. Remember what happened to Herod when we accepted the PRAISE that should have gone to God! ( Acts 12:21-23)

It has been noted that vain men seek PRAISE, weak men are inflated by PRAISE, and wise men disregard PRAISE. The wise do not allow the PRAISE of others to go to their head, but instead remain modest, thus revealing the genuineness of humility.

Earlier Solomon had stated a similar proverb, but with a different ending.
"The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and the LORD TESTS HEARTS." ( Proverbs 17:3 ESV)

Not only what PRAISE, but whose PRAISE we allow to influence us is important. To be able to remain humble in the midst of PRAISE reveals the focus of life is not so much on self as it is on striving to simply live in accordance with what is right. This is what marks the life of those who seek the PRAISE of God more than the PRAISE of men. (note John 12:43) Can we accept PRAISE and still remain more drawn toward what God thinks of us than mankind? If so, we are passing the test!

Have a great day ENCOURAGED, BUT NOT PUFFED UP BY COMMENDATION!
Carl

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