Instead of being critical of people in authority over you and
Instead of being critical of people in authority over you and envious of their position, be happy you're not responsible for everything they have to do. Instead of piling on complaints, thank them for what they do. Overwhelm them with encouragement and appreciation!
Joyce Meyer, in her wisdom, gave counsel to the restless heart when she said: “Instead of being critical of people in authority over you and envious of their position, be happy you’re not responsible for everything they have to do. Instead of piling on complaints, thank them for what they do. Overwhelm them with encouragement and appreciation!” Her words carry the ancient lesson that honor flows upward as well as downward, and that true strength lies not in bitterness, but in gratitude.
In the manner of the ancients, we see that to rule or to lead is no crown of leisure, but a burden of fire. The one in authority carries the weight of many lives, the sleepless nights of decision, and the loneliness of command. To envy their station is folly, for the throne is gilded with duty, not with ease. Better to rejoice that one is spared such trials, and to give thanks to those who bear them with courage.
The spirit of criticism is easy, for words cost little; but the spirit of encouragement is rare, for it requires humility and vision. Complaints are like stones cast upon the weary, but appreciation is like water given to a thirsty traveler. Meyer teaches that to overwhelm a leader with gratitude is to strengthen their hands for the labor that must continue. Thus, followers are not powerless; their reverence can either weaken or fortify those who lead them.
The origin of such wisdom is as old as the councils of kings. In ancient courts, loyal subjects upheld their rulers not with flatteries alone, but with honest respect and enduring support. A leader who felt the love of their people stood firm against storms; one who faced only grumbling and envy faltered quickly. Joyce Meyer clothed this timeless truth in modern words, but its roots reach deep into the soil of human history.
Let future generations remember: the path of envy leads only to bitterness, while the path of gratitude builds harmony. Honor those who carry the heavier loads, for one day you too may be called to bear them. Speak not with complaint, but with encouragement, and you will strengthen not only the one you praise, but the whole company they guide. For in truth, appreciation is not weakness, but a mighty force — binding leaders and followers together in the shared labor of destiny.
HANguyen Hoang Anh
This quote is a reminder to approach leadership with more empathy and less judgment. It’s easy to feel resentment or jealousy toward those in charge, but understanding their struggles can shift our perspective. However, can showing appreciation without understanding the full scope of their challenges truly be effective? What if their actions are causing harm or injustice? How do we balance gratitude with constructive criticism?
GDGold D.dragon
I really like the perspective this quote offers—appreciating the people in charge rather than resenting their position. It’s easy to criticize from the outside, but it takes empathy and understanding to appreciate their role. However, is it always enough to just show appreciation? Shouldn’t we also hold those in authority accountable for their actions, even while we encourage them?
DHDuc Huy
Joyce Meyer’s quote makes me think about how we often overlook the challenges that leaders face. It encourages us to focus on gratitude rather than envy. But what happens when the people in power are not performing well? Is it still our responsibility to be encouraging, or do we have a duty to respectfully voice our concerns? Where is the line between gratitude and complacency?
HHoangducdai
I love the idea of appreciating those in positions of authority instead of focusing on complaints. It’s a refreshing way to foster positivity and support. But it also makes me wonder: should we always be silent about issues that need to be addressed? How do we express gratitude while also acknowledging areas that might need improvement? Can we encourage while also ensuring accountability?
TT33.N.t. thanh thu
This quote reminds me of how easy it is to criticize those in leadership roles without fully understanding the weight of their responsibilities. It challenges us to shift our perspective—from complaining to appreciating the challenges that others face. But, how do we find the balance between offering constructive feedback and simply encouraging them? Can appreciation truly alleviate the pressure those in authority often feel?