True Commendation

2 Corinthians 10:1-18

For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends. (2 Cor. 10:18)

AMONG CURRENT BUZZWORDS, several have to do with comparison to a goal: measurable outcomes, performance standards, and dashboard indicators all take as their point of reference some objective standard. In our workplaces we are required to perform up to some stated agreed-upon norm. When we do, we can boast of our achievements and may be in for some reward. Everyone likes to succeed, and the good opinion of others is a powerful form of affirmation. Some results are difficult to measure, however, and some standards are not reliable. The apostle Paul faced this. He was sometimes unfairly judged and felt the need to defend himself. Those who looked only at the surface of things did not understand the depth of his ministry. They were using unreliable indicators to judge spiritual effectiveness. The apostle rejected comparison based on peers praising one another. He trusted God's good purposes for himself and exercised his God-given gifts and authority within his assigned parameters. Because I grew up in a different culture, I have known what it means to be misunderstood or not appreciated for who I really was. Like Paul, I have sometimes struggled to represent myself fairly to those around me. And like Paul, I have learned the value of entrusting myself to God, for it is He who always judges fairly.

Rita D. Koch

Today, avoid seeking the praise of others; look to God.