We can get caught up in the applause of men before we even realize it. We may be tempted to smile big when we hear "You are SO anointed," "That was powerful," "You really blessed me," and so on. There is a feeling of warmth that may fill our hearts when we hear that what we are doing is revered by men.
Jesus had (and still has) a very popular ministry. Thousands of people showed up whenever the news spread that He was in the region. Fame spread of His miracles and wondrous words and parables. He was merely doing the will of Him Who sent Him.
We can be thankful when we are effective, but we must always resist the temptation to allow ourselves to become puffed up on our own reputations. It is ok to sit in the back or behind the post where it is more difficult to see. Carrying our own baggage will help us to identify with the load that someone else may have to carry for us. Having our names mispronounced or forgotten may help us to remember that it is really all about Him. Having our CDs skip during ministry may remind us that we can depend only on the Lord. We are then reminded that the Lord exalts the humble, but resists the proud.
Matthew 23:5-7 (NKJV)
"But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments. They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’"
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