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 3 of 5 ALL THE FACTS ARE NOT IN YET

God has "appointed a day in the which He will judge the world in righteousness" (Acts 17:30-31, KJV). Until that time, final judgement concerning you and your work is to be held in abeyance. When "the Lord comes" the time of evaluation will come. We must take care not to become impatient. Take the admonition seriously -- and it is to everyone: "Therefore, judge nothing before the appointed time" (I Cor. 4:5). Give yourself to the work, and leave the judging to the Judge! Introspection is good to a point, but you must not allow yourself to remain there. Learn to say with that "sweet psalmist," "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me, and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting" (Psa. 139:23-24, NIV).

EACH WILL RECEIVE HIS PRAISE FROM GOD

The thought of receiving "praise" from God is an arresting one. English words related to "praise" stretch our minds, i.e. applause, commend, compliment, congratulate, exalt, honor, laud, approve, appreciate, honor, tribute. To consider these terms in regard to God's evaluation of us is challenging -- almost fearful. Our hearts seem to forbid such a consideration. Yet, the Holy Spirit confronts us with the mind of God on the matter, challenging us to believe the truth. There are two Greek words translated "praise" that touch upon this subject. Epainos (ep-ai-nos) is used in I Corinthians 4:5, Romans 2:29, and means "laudation" or "praise." "Then each one's praise will come from God" (NKJV). " . . . whose praise is not from men but from God." (NKJV). Doxa (dox-a) is used, among other places, in John 12:43, meaning "dignity, glory, honor, or praise." " . . . for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God" (NKJV). Both are strong words, applying to man praising God, as well as God praising men. At some point, each person engaged in the work of the Lord must determine the praise he will seek. Those who love and seek praise from men will receive it, but will not be honored by God. Those who love the praises of God will not be disappointed. They will labor with greater fervency, and endure greater hardships.

PRAISE NOT COLLECTIVE

Observe that the Spirit says, " . . . each will receive his praise from God." This honor will be individualized. This is involved in Christ's promise to overcomers. "I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it" (Rev. 2:17). God's commendation of the faithful will be personal, even though it will be public. No individual laboring for Jesus must fail to see this. The approbation of God is worth whatever it costs you to obtain it. Conversely, no praise of men is worth forfeiting the praise of God. Work for it, and do so zealously and expectantly. God has not lied to us in the promise of such a marvelous blessing.

LOVE GOD'S PRAISE

It may appear presumptuous for you to love the praise of God. But this is not the case. John explains the failure of some to openly confess their faith. His inspired insight reveals many of the situations with which we cope. "Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved praise from men more than praise from God" (John 12:42-43). A proper affection for divine approval will deliver men from many snares. It is tragic that much of the religion of our day is nothing more than an appeal for "praise from men." Too many of our churches have become entertainment centers, where the applause of men is energetically sought. Such activity was not honorable when Jesus walked among men. It is even less honorable now that He has been exalted, and has given us "exceeding great and precious promises" (2 Pet. 1:4, KJV).