RECEIVING PRAISE FROM GOD

"Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one's praise will come from God" (1 Cor 4:5, NKJV).

Devotion 2 of 5

IT DOES NOT MATTER

If you are primarily God's steward, It really does not matter what men think of you. Admittedly, that sounds bold, and almost pretentious. After all, shepherds of Christ's flock are to be "of good report," even from them that are without (I Tim. 3:7). But this does not mean others approve of their message, or of their particular way of presenting it. Were that the case, there would be no under-shepherd. The "good report" concerns moral conduct; living above reproach and the snare of the devil. It cannot be stated any clearer: "I care very little if I am judged by you, or by any human court" (I Cor. 4:2). Even though Paul served the church, he was primarily the servant of God. Although he ministered to people, he was essentially the minister of God. It is no different with you. God chose you. God blessed you. God commissioned you. God gave you what you have. You are His steward! Place a low value on the analysis of your peers. Such estimations are not without value, but obtaining them is never to be your primary goal. Remember, these are not the words of a man lacking sensitivity. The "care" or concern "of the churches" was something with which Paul contended "daily" (2 Cor. 11:28). He sorrowed over his own countrymen continually (Rom. 9:2). He earnestly sought the profit of those to whom he ministered. But when it came to the evaluation of his ministry, his quest was God's approval, not man's! Take the example of the Lord Jesus Himself. Here is His mind on the matter, and He applied it to His life when He "dwelt amongst us." "I do not accept praise from men" (John 5:41). He did not mean that He refused worship, thanksgiving, or expressions of faith. He was saying this was not His aim, His goal, His objective. His ministry was not dependent upon men's favorable appraisal. While He was here, He sought the Father's approval. As a consequence, the Father Himself honored our Savior (John 8:54; Phil. 2:9). Thus did Jesus set the pattern for us all. Do not shun to follow it.

DO NOT JUDGE YOURSELF

In fact, Paul did not even "judge" himself ("indeed, I do not even judge myself"). He is speaking of a personal stamp of approval upon his labors. He refused to give the approving seal to his own work. He DID "judge" himself in regard to his walk with God, and encouraged others to do the same. "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith" (II Cor. 13:5). Here, however, he is speaking od the assessment of his labors--of their effectiveness. You do not know enough about yourself, your work, or your God to place the final stamp of approval on your ministry. You are handling the goods of another -- never forget that! Personal evaluation has to do with your progress, not your apparent effectiveness. It deals with discipleship, not making disciples. Self examination deals with your faith, your love, and your personal spirituality. Your stewardship has to do with the faithful handling of Christ's possessions. Because of that situation, you can say with Paul, "It is the Lord Who judges me" (I Cor. 4:4, NIV).

-- TOMORROW: ALL THE FACTS ARE NOT IN YET! --