Compliments and When to Accept Them

I don't have any narcissistic delusions or over-exaggerated problems with humility, but compliments are sometimes difficult for me to accept, dependent of course on what they are. When someone praises my writing, I often find it difficult to take credit − I know where my inspiration comes from. But yesterday, I had no problem accepting two compliments.

For many years, I've served as a lector at my church. At first, it was a little daunting because I always read at the service which was broadcast live via our local radio station. It's not that I'm shy (as anyone who knows me will attest); it's just that I didn't want to mess up reading something so important.

Years later, I now say a little prayer before I read scripture because I really want my voice to carry the profound nature of the subject matter. I want there to be no question about the message of what I am saying to convey God's word. Simply put, I want my voice to honor God.

Yesterday, two people told me I was successful. (Others have done so in the past, but yesterday was especially meaningful.) The first told me he always enjoys it when I read. The second thanked me for reading because it was important to him for passages to be read with authority. He could really "hear God's words coming through my mouth." Now that is a compliment! It's not praise for me and what a good job I did, but rather a confirmation that God answered my little prayer to give glory to His word.

I keep thinking of something our Pastor said in a recent sermon. He asked us to think about where we fit in, much like teenagers trying to find their place in society. I guess we all go through that awkwardness upon accepting a Christian life. Where do we end and where does God begin? The simple answer, I think, is that God is within us and we just have to decide if we accept His direction rather than our own. I admit that discerning that difference is sometimes a challenge.

I think, or I hope, I'm getting better about understanding and doing God's will rather than my own. At least I know that my prayer as a lector yesterday must have been right.