March 5, 2026

Hey guys, 

This week’s Thought comes from Proverbs 28:21. There, Solomon says, “Fire tests the purity of gold and silver, but a person is tested by being praised.”

Let's break that down. Fire burns the impurities from gold and silver. Most of us have never been involved in the actual refining process of gold or silver or fine metals, but we understand the concept. Intense heat separates the impurities from the gold and silver, and what's left is more pure than what was there before. That concept makes sense to us. We can wrap our minds around the request “Lord, refine me.” Many of us have prayed that before, and know that difficulty might soon follow, because we understand that difficulty leads to us being stronger.

Think about it this way…increased exercise results in an increased fitness level…saving money leads to wealth later on… a good diet will lead to better health. I enjoy a big sloppy hamburger a lot more than I do a salad, but the salad is going to push me closer to a good level of health. We understand that part of it: difficulties and trials test our character. However, in the second part of the verse, Solomon says, “a person is really tested by being praised.” 

How's that? 

I started thinking about the contrast between the refining process, and being praised. Being praised is fun. Being praised is enjoyable. We like it when people say good things about us. So how is that a test? 

Paul says in Romans 12:3, “Do not think of yourselves more highly than you ought.” Solomon consistently talks about the importance of humility throughout Proverbs and warns us that pride comes before a fall. 

So, if it's easy for us to be praised, why is it such a hard test? In Philippians 2, we're told to have the same heart as Jesus, who became a servant. The thought process of us not thinking highly of ourselves leads to a mindset of love, a servant's heart, and a sense of selflessness…all of which lead to a freedom from strife and conflict in our relationships. But if I start thinking about myself, or start hearing the praises of people too much, my heart starts heading in the other direction. 

Consider this…you're usually praised for doing something well or doing something worthwhile, or maybe even something that serves someone else. As you continue to be praised for it, your heart can drift from your main purpose, and you might start doing it for the praise of people instead of the good of those you’re serving.

So, as you're thinking about your routine today or your week ahead, I want to challenge you — don't just look at the hard things as a point of refinement, but also, be careful how you handle it when people praise you. 

Love you guys,

John