The Best Compliment You Can Receive

I know this isn't my typical type of article, but I felt it would be noteworthy to share it with you.

Some moments in life catch you off guard with their simplicity yet leave a profound impact. Today was one of those moments for me. As an Uber driver, this job has been a refreshing change of pace after 20 years in law enforcement. It’s not just about driving; it’s about connecting with people, and today, one of those connections truly stood out.

When my passenger stepped into the car, his energy lit up the space. “Wow, your car looks amazing,” he said enthusiastically. He marveled at how clean everything was, commented on the pleasant smell, and even asked me about the tablet I’d installed for passenger convenience. It wasn’t just polite small talk—it was genuine admiration, the kind you don’t hear every day.

Then he said something that caught my attention: “I’m an Uber driver, too.” That’s when the conversation shifted to something more meaningful. He wasn’t just complimenting me—he was seeking advice. He wanted to know how I kept the car clean, what air freshener I used, and where I got the tablet set up. He wanted to learn and improve his setup to serve his riders better.

Without hesitation, I shared everything. I told him the brand of the air freshener, my cleaning routine, and the details about the tablet and mount. There was no holding back. As we talked, I felt this sense of joy. Here was someone—technically a competitor—showing me respect and admiration, and I had the opportunity to lift him. It felt good. It felt right.

It also brought back a memory. I had been on the other side of the equation a while ago. I was a passenger in an Uber, and I was curious about the driver’s setup. I asked questions, eager to learn, but the driver seemed guarded, almost reluctant to share. I remember how that reluctance made me feel—as though I was intruding or asking for something I didn’t deserve. That memory made today’s interaction even more powerful.

This experience made me think about how we, as Christians, sometimes act toward each other—especially those in ministry or leadership. Too often, we see each other as competitors rather than co-workers in the Kingdom of God. Ministries criticize one another, leaders tear each other down, and churches become territorial. But why? Aren’t we all working toward the same goal?

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 3:9 ring true: “For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.” We’re not rivals trying to outdo one another for personal glory. We’re co-laborers, each with a unique role to play in advancing God’s Kingdom.

The best compliment you can give someone isn’t just a kind word—it’s your willingness to share, encourage, and help them grow. Whether sharing tips about an Uber setup or offering advice to a fellow minister, these small acts of generosity build something far more significant than individual success. They build community. They build trust. They make the Kingdom.

Today’s encounter reminded me of the power of encouragement. Imagine what the world would look like if we all chose to lift each other instead of tearing each other down. Imagine ministries working together, leaders cheering each other on, and Christians truly embodying the love and humility of Christ. What a powerful testimony that would be.

Whether you’re driving for Uber, leading a ministry, or simply interacting with others daily, remember this: The greatest compliment isn’t just what you say—it’s what you’re willing to give. Let’s be people who build, who encourage, and who celebrate each other’s successes. After all, we’re all on the same team, striving toward the same eternal prize. Together, we can achieve so much more than we ever could alone.