The Monday Morning Debrief: Do we always have to tear down?
There is a saying that you should never talk about politics or religion because it will always stir up conflict and arguments no matter where you are. Well, I’m going to add a 3rd to it. You should never talk about politics, religion or…Tim Tebow in public because EVERYONE always has an opinion on Tebow.
Honestly, I’m happy for the guy because he’s living his dream when a lot of people are saying he has no business playing. But I’m just one opinion and I’m sure there are a ton of people out there waiting to prove me wrong. Especially since the Broncos just got blown out on Saturday night by the Patriots.
It does seem that every time Tim Tebow’s name is brought up, someone will have an opinion – good or bad. But, a lot of time it is negative. “How can he succeed?” “He’s not a pro quarterback”. “It’s just a matter of time before his luck runs out”. “His faith is too much of an issue”. Tebow is the perfect example that when something good is happening to other people, there always seems to be a group of others that want to tear them down. Why that is, I don’t know but it happens and unfortunate.
So how does this apply to ministry or life? Here’s how…
Are we about building people up or tearing them down? Are we about helping people process and become better at what they do or are we about just giving up and throwing in the towel feeling like they will never get it or become better? Are we criticizing or helping others find ways to improve?
Obviously it is easy for us to observe people from a distance, like what we do with Tim Tebow, and comment on what we feel like they need to do to become better. What is harder is for you to get right in there with people who are not performing well or need help and help them “get it” and do better. Who are you?
TAKE A MINUTE right now and think through how you are approaching your comments or criticism of others. Are you lifting up and helping or are you just heaping coals on the fire? It’s far easier to criticize than walk along side of people. But the difference makers are those who take the extra time, take the extra step and walk along side of others to help make someone else better.
Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Experiences? Post a comment and let the discussion begin so that we can all benefit from it.
