I run a Christian awards ceremony, but Forrest Frank is right. If the trophy becomes the goal, we’ve all failed

Forrest Frank’s decision to avoid Christian award shows has stirred loud debate. Founder of StepFWD awards, O’Neil Dennis, welcomes Frank’s refusal to take the stage. It reminds us we must not worship the gift, but the source of the gift, he says

In a powerful moment of clarifying testimony, the highly successful artist Forrest Frank delivered one of the clearest contemporary expressions of this mandate, sparking a crucial conversation about the place of earthly recognition in the kingdom of God. 

Redirecting the Spotlight 

The Instagram post in question was a simple yet arresting statement of conviction from Frank, directly addressing the curiosity surrounding his absence from major awards ceremonies. He articulated his stance without ambiguity: 

“Had a lot of people asking where i was today, so i felt like i needed to share on here. No this is not a refusal to be a light in dark places…this is a refusal to go on stages and get awards. I already got the greatest award of all time. Hope y’all can understand love you guys 🤍”

This declaration immediately redirects the focus from the artist back to the author of the art. Frank’s choice isn’t a blanket rejection of the Christian music industry; it is a firm refusal to allow the culture of personal glory to eclipse the true, eternal reward - salvation through Christ.

This decision fundamentally encapsulates the need to recognise that all professional success, viral streams and accolades are utterly secondary to the heavenly prize.