GIVING CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE

December 2025

It seems almost universal among Christians that when someone mentions a person who did something good for others without receiving the credit they deserved, the immediate reaction is, “We’re not supposed to want recognition or praise for doing good.” I struggle to understand why so many jump to that conclusion. According to Scripture, withholding recognition from someone who deserves it is a sin just as real as openly seeking praise for ourselves.

Most discussions about recognition focus on the sin of those who crave it. Jesus warns against performing righteous acts to be seen by others:
Matthew 6:1 — “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people to be seen by them…”
Likewise, Matthew 23:12 teaches, “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
And Proverbs 27:2 reminds us, “Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth.”

However, this is not the only side of the issue.

Recently, I shared with a brother that I attended a fundraiser where the MC gave themselves credit for a generous act they did not actually do. His immediate response was, “We’re not supposed to seek credit.” But that was not my point. The issue was that someone—who claimed to be a Christian—was deliberately presenting themselves as the source of good deeds to gain recognition and possibly more financial support. Their speech was filled with “I” and “me,” even though the work being celebrated was the collective effort of many. Scripture teaches a community mindset: Ephesians 4:25 emphasizes that we are members of one body and should speak truthfully.

Just as the Bible warns against seeking attention, it also commands us to give recognition where it is due.
Proverbs 3:27 instructs, “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Encourage one another and build one another up.”

More importantly, God Himself provides many examples of openly affirming the good works of His people.

In Matthew 25:21, the master praises the faithful servant: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
In 1 Samuel 16:7, God directs Samuel to anoint David, publicly acknowledging his heart and calling.
In Acts 15:22, the early church recognizes and appoints apostles and elders as leaders.

Paul repeatedly emphasizes the importance of giving honor where it is deserved.
Romans 13:7 (KJV) says, “Render therefore to all their dues… honour to whom honour.” This underscores that showing appreciation and respect is a moral responsibility, whether in the church, the workplace, or personal relationships.

Paul models this himself:
1 Thessalonians 1:2 — “We give thanks to God always for you all…”
Philippians 1:3 — “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.”
And Christ affirms the works of the churches in Revelation 2:19: “I know your works, and charity, and service, and faith…”

Recognizing and honoring people—even outside the church—is also a Christlike principle. As Romans 13:7 teaches, we owe others the respect, honor, and acknowledgment they are due. Honoring the contributions of others reflects the very character of God, who sees and affirms the faithful service of His people.

For this reason, we should be intentional about acknowledging the quiet heroes among us—those in mission fields, in churches, and in our communities who serve faithfully without seeking recognition and who seldom receive it. Giving honor is not about inflating egos; it is about reflecting God’s justice, encouragement, and love.