Riyad Us-Saliheen (Gardens of the Righteous)

Chapter 289
Things not to be Considered as Showing off

1621. Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) was asked: "Tell us about a person who does some good deed and people praise him, will this be considered as showing off?'' He replied, "This is the glad tidings which a believer receives (in this life).''
[Muslim].

Commentary:  We learn from this Hadith that if a person does a virtuous act to please Allah (i.e., not with the intention to show off) and people praise him for it, then there is nothing wrong with it. In fact, such praise is the glad tidings which he receives in this world. Expression of such good opinion about him by the public is akin to a declaration that Allah is pleased with him. Sincere admiration and praise of someone by the public is not a disqualification. It is, in fact, an evidence of his virtuous conduct and its recognition by Allah.