Job 31:27Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

While the saints may occasionally find joy in their virtuous actions, they understand that true contentment comes when their goodness inspires others to pursue righteousness, shifting their joy from personal achievement to the spiritual growth of those around them. Hence, when acknowledgment does not contribute to the welfare of others, the glory received should not elevate our spirits; rather, it ought to humble us.

When we receive praise from others, it prompts introspection and a sense of brokenness regarding our true selves. A soul that is elevated, even by flattering words, rejoices not in the truth but rather seeks recognition among humans, neglecting the divine judgment. It becomes enamored with human praise, delighting as if deserving of a reward. In contrast, a genuinely humble heart either denies the accolades entirely—doubting their truth—or recognizes them with trepidation, fearing that such acknowledgment could distract from eternal rewards or lead to temporary recognition overshadowing lasting glory.

Consequently, the soul of the chosen experiences turmoil when praises are offered, birthing reflections that are detached from error. With vigilant thoughts, it is filled with trepidation, contemplating whether it will face God's righteous judgment for the merits it might not possess or that it will forfeit eternal rewards for the praise it has received. Thus, we often observe that while the unrighteous may be sullied by applause, a righteous individual finds refinement in it. Praises directed at the good they have accomplished bring fear of the Last Judgment, prompting self-examination and correction of any flaws.

The fear arises from the concern that they may not align with God's perception and are dissatisfied remaining in a state unjustly viewed favorably by humanity. Therefore, as Solomon wisely remarked, “As silver is tried in the smelter and gold in the crucible, so a man is tried by the mouth of him that praiseth” (Proverbs 27:21). Just as the flames consume all impurities in precious metals, so too do praises reveal one’s true character. Should someone's praises elevate them, their worth is but a false façade, wasting like gold in the furnace of flattery. If, upon hearing praise, one reflects on divine judgment, igniting a sincere fear of accountability, they may find purification in that very process. This understanding refines them, shining all the more brightly because of it.

Blessed Job, who never took credit for his virtuous deeds, confidently stated, “If I have looked at the sun when it shines...” His glory did not sway him from the discernment of his Inner Judge; he continued, “And if I looked at the sun when it shines.” He did not permit even a fleeting thought of superiority regarding his actions; he preemptively declared, “and if my heart rejoiced in secret.” It is common for an inattentive mind, enticed by temporary accolades, to eventually succumb to self-praise. Job added, “And if I have kissed my hand with my mouth” (Job 31:27). The 'hands' represent actions, and 'mouth' signifies words, much like the proverb that speaks of the lazy man who struggles to lift his hand to partake of sustenance (Proverbs 19:24). The diligent individual aligns their speech with deed; thus, to “kiss his hand with his mouth” reflects one who acknowledges and celebrates their own actions, rewarding themselves through self-commendation. Whoever bestows praises for good acts surely is diminished in worth.

This is aptly encapsulated in the words of the great preacher: “And that which thou art, what hast thou not received? Now if thou hast received it, why dost thou boast as if thou hadst not received it?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). Holy individuals recognize that their nature is flawed since the fall of humanity and that it is only through grace from above that they can aspire to higher desires and noble deeds. They perceive their shortcomings as part of their mortal existence but view any goodness as a gift of divine grace. They become debtors for both the inclination to act virtuously and the fulfillment of those good intentions. Thus, John aptly remarked, “And they worshipped Him that liveth for ever and ever, and laid their crowns before the throne of the Lord” (Revelation 4:10).

To present their crowns at the Lord's feet signifies relinquishing their accomplishments, acknowledging that the power to endure and victors belongs to the Creator. Job did not attribute his virtuous actions to himself; rather, he consistently redirected praise to his Maker, asserting that he did not “kiss the hand of his mouth.” In essence, he proclaimed that he would not claim ownership over his deeds, for doing so would discount the grace of the Creator. Thus, he continues with significant reflections on this truth.