SO many people would give almost anything to have the kind of renown and fame that David received from the people of Israel after he killed Goliath, but as we see in I Samuel 29:5, it is not always such a good thing. The enemies of David quoted the Israelites’ song of David’s praise — “Saul has slain his thousands, but David his ten thousands” — in order to demean him. This is now the second time that hymn — intended in his honor — had been used by an enemy to slander David. People often dream of such praise and fame, but as we see here it can be a curse instead of a blessing.

Be very careful how you respond to popular praise. It is NOT always a good thing, especially when it comes from a compromised and ungodly multitude! It is no jewel on one’s resume to win “Person of the Year” in Sodom! As Proverbs 29:5 says, those who flatter you can be laying a snare for your feet. Popular praise can lead to pride, which can be your downfall. Like Saul with David it can lead to jealousy, and your becoming a target for others. If you enjoy the praise too much, you may begin compromising your decisions and adjusting your actions in order to receive MORE such praise.

What may seem at first to be a “good” thing can actually be the worst thing that ever happens to you. Jesus Himself was very wary of it. John 2:24 says that when Jesus began to receive popular praise, He did not trust it: “But Jesus, on His part, was not entrusting Himself to them, for He knew all men.” Scripture repeatedly admonishes us to follow His example: do not lay stock in it, do not seek it, and do not trust the praise of the crowd. It may not be the blessing you anticipate it to be!