When I saw the headlines that Forrest Frank would no longer attend music award shows — and that he publicly explained his conviction on social media — I felt a mix of respect and discomfort. On the one hand, I honor a believer wanting to guard his heart. On the other, I believe True Humility can, at times, look very different. True Humility isn’t about hiding your light — it’s about refusing to make it about yourself.
True Humility doesn’t mean avoidance; it means stewardship. Serving or succeeding in the spotlight is possible when glory goes to God, not self.
The public announcement that raised questions
Forrest Frank posted on Instagram and TikTok that he’d no longer walk red carpets or accept trophies, citing a conviction that accepting awards draws attention to the artist rather than to God. For instance, Christian Post documented his statement: “the trophy is not what saves us.”
You can read the full announcement here: Christian Post — Forrest Frank refusing awards shows.
There’s nothing wrong with guarding motives. But when a walk of conviction becomes a headline, we must examine the potential tension between integrity and visibility.
What humble discipleship really looks like
Humility doesn’t demand invisibility — it demands surrender. In Scripture, Joseph framed his wisdom as God’s answer, not his own (Genesis 41:16). Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar, “the revelation comes from God” (Daniel 2:30). The issue isn’t recognition — it’s whether we take the credit for it.
The apostle Paul gives us a sharp model in Philippians 2 (ESV): Christ, though in very nature God, did not cling to equality but “emptied himself,” taking the form of a servant (Philippians 2:5–8). Read the passage here: BibleGateway — Philippians 2 (ESV). That’s not a call to self-denial for shame’s sake, but to intentional humility for God’s glory.
Why success can still be worship
When God gives us talent, opportunity, and platform, they’re not burdens to resist — they’re gifts to steward. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23). Jesus said our light should shine so people see good works and glorify our Father (Matthew 5:16).
If Forrest Frank had walked on stage, received an award, and said, “This came from Jesus, not me,” that might have been a powerful act of witness. Instead, publicly refusing the possibility placed attention on his refusal over on the Creator. Either path—acceptance or avoidance—can be holy. But the posture must keep God visible.
When humility becomes a headline
Jesus warns in Matthew 6:1 about practicing righteousness in front of others just to be seen. That doesn’t mean every public conviction is wrong — it means we must always ask: Why am I speaking? If an act of restraint becomes a spectacle for restraint, we risk replacing worldly applause with religious applause.
I appreciate Forrest’s intention to stay free of pride. But there’s a different danger: when humility is broadcast, it can subtly shift focus back to the person. That’s why I believe restraint is often best exercised quietly.
Internal link reflections for you
This isn’t about picking a side or tearing down a fellow believer; it’s about teaching discernment. I’ve reflected on similar issues in past posts:
— For a cultural perspective on truth in modern conflict, see Charlie Kirk, Culture, and the Lie That Truth Is Hate.
— For theological depth on obedience, love, and heart posture, you can read Love Without Obedience Isn’t Really Love.
These help frame how we engage culture without losing heart, and obedience without hypocrisy.
Heart checks before public acts
— Am I avoiding pride — or seeking praise for being humble?
— Does this public act point to Christ, or to my own commitment?
— Can I do good work in private and let God’s approval be enough?
Applying this beyond the spotlight
Most of us won’t win awards. But we’ll face platforms in smaller forms — a professional accolade, a social media moment, a community shout-out. The same principles apply:
— Receive with gratitude, then give Christ the credit.
— Serve more than you’re served.
— Refuse anything that demands compromise.
— Let fruit speak louder than announcements.
My prayer for us
I don’t doubt Forrest Frank’s motive, and I accept that his convictions come from a sincere place. But I also want to say: humility doesn’t need a press release. It can — and often should — be expressed quietly unless the moment demands otherwise.
Let’s not shy from the light God gives us. Let’s walk in it, but keep the flame centered on Him.
Arch Kennedy
Bold, Unfiltered, and Unafraid
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