“A young boy complained to his father that most of the church hymns were boring to him, too far behind the times, tiresome tunes and meaningless words. His father put an end to his son's complaints by saying, "If you think you can write better hymns, then why don't you?" The boy went to his room and wrote his first hymn, "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross." The year was 1690, the teenager was Isaac Watts” (sermonsearch.com).
It’s so easy to criticize, isn’t it? Being critical doesn’t involve getting our hands dirty or shouldering any responsibility. We don’t want to be held accountable for getting the job done but we sure can point out the flaws of those who are doing something. This reminds me of something Jesus said about the hypocritical religious leaders of His day: “...therefore all that they tell you, do and observe, but do not do according to their deeds; for they say things and do not do them. They tie up heavy burdens and lay them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are unwilling to move them with so much as a finger” (Matthew 23:3–4).
Be a doer instead of a critic. Instead of standing back and pointing out all the flaws in someone’s else’s efforts, it would be better to roll up our sleeves and offer to help out. Chances are the ones already doing the job know that they are not perfect and that their efforts could be improved upon. It’s so discouraging to take on a task only to be taken to task by those who weren’t willing to do anything about it in the first place.
“Two taxidermists stopped before a window in which an owl was on display. They immediately began to criticize the way it was mounted. Its eyes were not natural; its wings were not in proportion with its head; its feathers were not neatly arranged; and its feet could be improved. When they had finished with their criticism, the old owl turned his head ... and winked at them” (sermonsearch.com).
God loves you!
Mike
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