Shelve Them and Move On
Bible in a Year:
Leviticus 25; Mark 1:23–45
Today's Scripture & Insight:
I’m reminded of some wise advice a radio broadcaster friend once gave me. Early on in his career, as my friend struggled to know how to deal with both criticism and praise, he felt that God was encouraging him to shelve both. What’s the essence of what he took to heart? Learn what you can from criticism and accept praise. Then shelve both and humbly move on in God’s grace and power.
Criticism and praise stir in us powerful emotions that, if left unchecked, can lead to either self-loathing or an overinflated ego. In Proverbs we read of the benefits of encouragement and wise counsel: “Good news gives health to the bones. . . .Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding” (15:30, 32).
If we’re on the receiving end of a rebuke, may we choose to be sharpened by it. Proverbs states, “Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise” (v. 31). And if we’re blessed with words of praise, may we be refreshed and filled with gratitude. As we walk humbly with God, He can help us learn from both criticism and praise, shelve them, and then move on in Him (v. 33).
Today's Reflection
Father God, thank You for the gift of praise and criticism. As I humbly surrender to You, may I grow and be sharpened by both.
PRAYER FOR THE DAY:
Often times we only pray when times are tough. The Prayer for Today is a prayer to be said every morning when we rise. It is a prayer to be said daily, whether times are good or bad.
How to say the Today Prayer
Say this prayer every morning before you begin your day. This will help you to focus on what is important in life as you go about your day. God, Family, Community, Charity etc…
Slowly, your life will be transformed for the better, as you commit yourself spiritually each day.
The Prayer for Today
Just for today, help me, God, to remember that my life is a gift,
that my health is a blessing, that this new day is filled with awesome potential,
that I have the capacity to bring something wholly new and unique and good into
this world.
that my health is a blessing, that this new day is filled with awesome potential,
that I have the capacity to bring something wholly new and unique and good into
this world.
Just for today, help me, God, to remember to be kind and patient to the
people who love me, and to those who work with me too. Teach me to see all the
beauty that I so often ignore, and to listen to the silent longing of my own soul.
people who love me, and to those who work with me too. Teach me to see all the
beauty that I so often ignore, and to listen to the silent longing of my own soul.
Just for today, help me, God, to remember You.
Let this be a good day, God, full of joy and love.
Amen
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