After every NFL touchdown you can count on a dramatic, choreographed celebration. The purpose is to draw attention to themselves and their achievement. I am glad to see that some players include their teammates in the celebration, because they could not have scored a touchdown without help. Most of these players will tell you that they are just having fun, but the utter lack of spontaneity points to a demand for attention as well.
I understand this behavior from celebrities as they have to have a certain amount of boastful pride in order to succeed in their businesses. However, when we do average things and then thump our chests and point to ourselves, we are expecting rewards that aren’t deserved.
Jesus cautioned us against seeking honor from men. Matthew 6:1 says, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.” It is far greater to do good works to honor God than to do the same things to win the praise of men. We demonstrate our love for God by honoring Him in this way.
Reluctant Retiree 