Deflecting the Praise

Re: Verse reading- Deuteronomy 8:10-18; Matthew 25:14-30 (day four)
We all enjoy the praise of others…probably way too much.  One of the character qualities we have taught our children is to ‘deflect the praise’.  Deflecting the praise requires humility.  When praised, our response should be to immediately remember those who have invested in us to enable us to accomplish that deed and then to acknowledge it openly…It may be financial provision, or a teacher who taught us the skills, or parents who sacrificially provided for us to have the opportunity to learn.  Deflecting the praise to others not only recognizes their contribution, but it reminds us of God’s provision in our lives.  Humility replaces pride.  “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6)  God, in His Sovereignty, has given us talents, promises, skills, and opportunity.  May we never forget the source of our blessing!