Every person likes to receive praise and commendation from others. With this desire, comes the danger of being like the religious leaders in the time of Jesus (Matthew 6:1-4). They cared more about receiving praise from men than God.

The Apostle Paul had a totally different mindset (1 Corinthians 4:1-5). Paul did not concern himself with the judgment of others, or even himself. His main concern was the Lord’s judgment. He wanted praise from God before anyone else.

This should be our desire as well. In fact, it is interesting that in the Bible we can read about times when Jesus personally praised and commended people.

He praised people for having great faith.

  • The Lord marveled at the faith of the Roman centurion (Matthew 8:5-10).
    • This man believed that Jesus has authority over sickness and disease.
    • As a gentile, his faith exceeded anyone among the Israelites.
  • What about us?
    • Do we have a faith that is also praised by the Lord? See Hebrews 11:1-6.
    • This is something that we must strive to walk in every day (2 Corinthians 5:7)!

He praised people for having a pure heart.

  • Jesus knew what kind of heart Nathaniel had (John 1:47-50).
    • He knew that his heart had no deceit and evil.
    • He knew that Nathaniel had a pure heart even before meeting him personally!
  • What about us?
    • Do we possess a heart like Nathaniel?
    • The Lord demands that we do (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 5:8).

He praised people for providing wonderful acts of service.

  • Mary sacrificed much to serve Jesus (Mark 14:3-9).
    • Many ridiculed her act of service.
    • The Lord commended and defended her.
  • What about us? Are we willing to serve the Lord like Mary?
    • Are willing to sacrifice our time to serve our brethren (Galatians 6:1-2)?
    • Are we willing to step out of our comfort zones to do evangelism (Matthew 28:19)?
    • Are we willing to sacrifice our money to give generously to His work (2 Corinthians 9:6-7)?
    • Are we willing to sacrifice our homes to engage in hospitality (1 Peter 4:9)?

Conclusion: The only thing that really matters is what the Lord thinks about our lives! See 2 Corinthians 10:12-13, 17-18.