KINGDOM ASSURANCE: Proverbs 27: 1-27

As we open up Proverbs 27, we are instructed immediately about boasting.  

So, I asked some questions.  Should we ever boast in ourselves?  Is it wrong to announce what we’ve accomplished?  

Here’s the answer I found right in the second verse:  “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips.”  Proverbs 27:  2

The New Testament says it this way:  “We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves.  When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.  For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.”  2 Corinthians 10: 12, 18

We don’t need praise from men but aim to please God, and God alone.  When He validates us, we gain the confidence we need and receive approval.  

Let’s look at this verse to understand how to answer:  “A satisfied person despises honey; but to a hungry person any bitter thing is sweet.”  Proverbs 27: 7

When one is full and satisfied, even tasty foods are unappealing.  When one is starving, even unpleasant foods seem enjoyable.  

With this comparison, my mind went to the times when I’ve overeaten and was so full, that even the mention of dessert or another bite was repulsive to me.  

Well, the same principle is applied spiritually. 

The condition of a man’s heart indicates his true character.  “As water reflects a face, so a man’s heart reflects the man.”  Proverbs 27: 19

We are to reflect the beauty of the Lord, not just in our outward appearance but inward beauty of a good heart, that He has transformed.  

“…Man is tested by the praise he receives.”  Proverbs 27: 21b

I love how the Apostle Paul explained this to the Thessalonians as he said, “We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else…”  1 Thessalonians 2: 4-6  

This is an updated edition of a post originally published on My Beloved’s Voice

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About the Author

Mary Beth Pecora, a faithful wife, mother, grandmother, friend, worshiper and servant leader, who loves life and loves people. More importantly, she passionately loves God and the fullness of who He is! For twenty-three years she has served in leadership positions within the ministry of Aglow International. Currently, she and her husband serve at The Secret Place--A Psalm 91 Ministry. It's a place for individual folks to come, be exhorted and prayed for, while being ushered to ministry stations within the room. They continue to serve monthly in the Prayer Room at their home church that they have been a part of for almost forty years. In April of 2022 they both received their Ministry License and were Ordained in May of 2023. She delights in encouraging folks of all ages within various walks of life. Her love of writing is now her passion, which led her to publish two books, "Restoration Explosion In The New Year," and "Navigating The Mysteries Of God." Above all that’s been accomplished and concluded, the BEST thing to her is knowing her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is her everything—her very best friend. Visit: Mybelovedsvoice.com

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