There is a popular quote with various accreditations and guises that goes something like:

“It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” This by Harry S Truman

As a whole, there is nothing wrong with this, in isolation it is not helpful. If people are genuinely working as a team, to the same goal and rejoicing together then it is fabulous. However, if part of the team is not appreciated for the value they bring, ignored for the service they contribute and not celebrated for their sacrificial endeavour, our normal human nature kicks in and demotivation or apathy ensues. 

It is important to celebrate appropriately and to honour those who work hard amongst us. Scant praise will be seen for what it is – we need to do things well. 

A quick, but not conclusive, survey of social media suggests that many who use this type of quote are in positions where they are honoured, celebrated and praised. Far less usage is visible from those without a platform. Surely that can inform us of something?

The flip side of this is that those who are not praised need to recognise the place where they place their identity. In the hand of God or the hands of men. Surely the highest praise is received from the former when He says “well done my good and faithful servant”