John Wooden was the great basketball coach at UCLA. During his tenure, he won 10 NCAA championships in a 12-year period, including a record 7 in a row. He once made a statement I really like. He said…
Talent is God given. Be humble.
Fame is man-given. Be grateful.
Conceit is self-given. Be careful.
Sometimes when we see success in an area, this is an easy saying to forget. We tend to begin believing the accolades of those around us, cease to be careful with regard to getting “a big head”, and we forget where our success and talent come from. Once we begin to “believe our own press”, and think we have achieved our position under our own steam, we walk on perilous ground. In Proverbs 11:2, a wise man wrote…
When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom.
God is the giver of all good things. He exalts, and He brings low. We all go through seasons in life. If you are in a season of humbling, learn the lessons God is trying to teach you. If you are in a season of success and advancement, stay humble. Never forget where those good and perfect gifts come from. Keep your focus forward, and your eyes fixed on Him. HE will never fail you.
I leave you with this, another great quote from Coach Wooden…
You can’t let praise or criticism get to you.
It’s a weakness to get caught up in either one.
The Heart of Abba - Ron Phillips 