Is there any difference between pride and praise? Or, is there a direct or indirect correlation between pride and boast? Why do people brag or boast? Can pride and praise go hand-in-hand? Can proud or boastful person praise himself or herself all the time?
As I started writing on this short topic, my inner voice and thoughts led me to self-examination as to whether or not I’m a proud or bragging person, instead of praising who Has blessed and provided me His benefits so far in my life.
I also notice that these two words “pride” and “praise,” are human emotions that carry opposite meaning. That is these words have a positive and negative connotation. For instance, with a negative connotation “pride” refers to a foolish or crazy, and with a positive connotation, it refers to a humble person. Likewise, with a negative meaning “praise” refers to a boast or brag, and with a positive meaning, it refers to recognition, compliment, an appreciation, or devotion.
As we can see based on these meanings there is a difference between pride and praise. Yes, with a negative connotation, there is a direct correlation between pride and boast or brag. And with a positive connotation, pride and praise can go hand-in-hand.
To gain a broader perspective on these two words, I referred to the Holy Bible. In fact, I found both a negative and positive connotation for word “pride.” For example, “In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them (Prov. 14:3 NKJV).” “When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom (Prov. 11:2 NKJV).” “For if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God? not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil (1 Tim. 3:5-6 NKJV).” “But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil (Jam. 4:16 NKJV).”
Similarly, I found both a negative and positive meaning for word “praise.” For instance, “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD (Ps. 150:6 NKJV).” Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised (Pr. 31:30 NKJV).” “Do not boast about tomorrow, For you do not know what a day may bring forth. Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; A stranger, and not your own lips. A stone is heavy and sand is weighty, But a fool’s wrath is heavier than both of them (Pr. 27:1-3 NKJV).”
I don’t think a proud or boastful person can praise himself or herself all the time since humbleness leads to real praises with recognition, appreciation, and devotion to God, who provides everything for each one who believes in Him. I admire God’s servants who first showed the real difference in “pride and praise.” Please share your thoughts and comments. Appreciated!