Commendation

2 Corinthians 10:18 For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

In the military, commendations come in many forms. One of those is highlighted in a series on Netflix called “Medal of Honor.” It highlights some of the recipients of our nations highest honor for valor, given to those who demonstrated the greatest courage and selfless sacrifice on behalf of our nation. It is worth your time.

As you look at people in their military dress uniforms, commendations are shown in the medals and strips that are displayed on the chest and arms. If you know the language of military commendation, these symbols tell a story. They outline the life of service and sacrifice of the individual and units of which they were members.

The civilian world doesn’t have the same symbols of commendation. Perhaps that is because people change jobs too often. Or perhaps it is because the level of sacrifice of those who are civilian doesn’t usually match the level of those in uniform. I’m not sure.

Sometimes in the civilian world you get a plaque or certificate for a job well done. When you retire you might get a gift to say thinks. But usually there is just a pat on the back or a “shout out” at the Christmas party.

Paul knows what commendations are important to him. The Corinthian believers are a commendation of Paul apostleship. Their very existence as a body of believers attest to the faithfulness of Paul and the truthfulness of the message he brought. But how did the commendation happen?

Well, the Holy Spirit confirmed Paul’s work in the Corinthians. Their lives were changed as they responded to the message Paul brought. And it is this change the was the Holy Spirit working, confirming the Gospel.

Imagine, if you would, being called to a stage to received an award (picture a lifetime achievement award or a Hall of Fame presentation). The lights are flashing and highlighting you as you come to the stage. The presenter has already laid out the reason for the award and the crowd is cheering. They are confirming the choice of the committee, at least on the surface.

That would be quite a moment, wouldn’t it! But Paul, if he were in the spotlight, would humbly offer the award to the true recipient, the LORD. He knows all that he accomplished is because of Jesus working in his life and ministry. It wasn’t him! He was just a clay pot.

So next time a commendation comes your direction, humbly take yourself out of the spotlight and shine it instead on the LORD. He is the only One who deserves the highest praise.