January 19
Scripture: Rom 2:29
Source author: Harry Erb
January 19
Great Performance A person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people. —Romans 2:29
My friend waxed eloquent about the concert he’d been to where a famous opera tenor had performed. “He was amazing. I was in tears at many points, the music was so touching. The applause was overwhelming.” We talked more and I said, “I wonder how such people keep their humility in such situations.” He laughed. “You know, it’s kind of a weird thing. But whenever people started to applaud, he didn’t bow. He didn’t eat it up and grin. No, he stepped back and bowed his head, as if praying. I think he realized everything he had was from God, and that God should get the real applause.” I thought about it a long time. Yes, in love God gave us gifts. In love He keeps us going. In love He trains us and makes us even better at what we do. And in love He applauds us, letting us know He is pleased.
Using our gifts is a way of praising God.
— Harry Erb —