“You can’t let praise or criticism get to you. It’s a
weakness to get caught up in either one” – John Wooden
It’s so easy to accomplish something and then let the praise
of others ring in your ears. It’s even easier to fester on the scolding words
of a critic. Everyone loves to hear their name shouted in admiration. Why else
would cheer leading be associated at every high school and college football
game. Hearing someone lift you up can be motivating! But as we see in popular
media, and as Jesus taught, it can also be a poison. Those who are less will become
the greatest. No, this does not refer to physical gain, but we can still take
notes while we’re here on this rock. Some of the most successful athletes avoid
shouting their names to the public. Terrell Owens was not one of those. He was
one of the most obnoxious athletes in the country. Everyone thought that he was
the best, and would always be the best. Do you know where he is now? He is
playing arena football to make a few bucks. He’s been poisoned by the almighty
act of self glorification. Never let praise poison what made you good in the
first place.
It’s just as dangerous to be caught up in the flood of
criticism. Nothing sinks a confident boat faster than fierce waves from the
mouth of a critic. Remember Noah? This is the guy obeying a DIRECT command from
God, while the whole world scoffed at him. “Old fool,” they would shout as he kept up the Noah. He literally had the whole world mocking. Still, he never
stopped and let them defeat him. He built that boat like God had commanded, and
he was counted righteous.
This week when you hear someone praise your efforts, thank
them, but don’t build a golden statue of yourself in your head. Just remember
why they’re praising you, because of how humble you efforts have been. And when
someone lashes out on you keep your eyes to the Lord, for He will be your
strength. Be strong this week and God bless. PR spiritually, and you will PR
physically.
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