Take The Compliment!

What is it with our society that accepting compliments has become so difficult? I’ve been putting a lot of thought into this as I have recently begun getting more compliments then I’m used to. There are two areas in my life in which I get compliments, writing my blog, and my photography. I think sometimes compliments come infrequently and sometimes we put our expectations to treat the flesh rather then trying to please God. When we put our focus on why we do things for the pleasure of bring glory to God, we can take the edge off. For many months I hoped my blog traffic would increase and it would become popular. I placed my value on how good my blog was by how many people viewed each day. Even now, I get very few comments, and some days I struggle with not achieving the goals I had set for myself.

 

My photography is something of an interesting position for me. While I take a ton of photos and post them since I don’t get much feedback about them, I usually assume they are average or below. Because of these things I have often questioned both my writing and photography and in that, I lost focus about what was important. Bringing glory to God and talking about God word wasn’t my inside priority, and when I lost sight of that, I questioned myself, and what I was doing. I began to think of quitting, and in that time I struggled a great deal.

 

My blog posts now reach almost 600 entries and when I receive a compliment I don’t really know how to react. I have realized lately that I don’t take compliments well. I spent so much time being told I was worthless, that I wasn’t good enough, that I’d never be special. I’ve spent time rejecting compliments with my heart while accepting them with a smile. I can’t say I’m proud of this, but after years and years of negative reinforcement it’s hard to reprogram the mind. Proverbs 15:13“13 A merry heart makes a cheerful [a]countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” It’s clear I must change my heart, and focus on the glory to God instead of the glory of myself.

 

I often hear people scoff at the idea of a compliment. I know I’m not alone in this aspect, but I say to all those out there it’s important to realize that God loves you, and as such, you’re important. You are royalty and heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven and you can’t place your self worth in the hands of fallible people. People will always be cruel, and selfish, but on the occasion you encounter someone who’s willing to compliment you, give you something wonderful as a compliment, humble yourself and accept it.

 

Remember it’s important to give compliments as well. It’s important to show others how much you care, and that you appreciate them. Romans 15:2“Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” Be kind, and gentle. Lift up others, and show them the love of God. Show them love because we are commanded to do so. Dream big and don’t let anyone stifle your dreams. Love yourself, and allow yourself to let others show you kindness. This is hard for some, as I know because it’s hard for me, but it’s important to put negative feelings away and trust what’s being told to you is true. Today I decided to share some of my photography I find most appealing. I hope you all enjoy.