Accept Applause Graciously

It is not because I am wiser than anyone else that I know the secret of your dream, but because God wants you to understand what was in your heart. Daniel 2:30

The congressman was bragging about an important piece of legislation he had cosponsored. When reporters pressed him for details, he was evasive because he had never actually seen the bill. His name had been attached to the measure so he could brag to the folks back home about cosponsoring it.

Even though Daniel was wiser than most of the people surrounding Nebuchadnezzar, he set the record straight by revealing the source of his wisdom. The king’s respect for Daniel and his God deepened.

If you live by a creed of giving credit where it’s due, you are also required to accept credit when you deserve it. There is no reason for false modesty. If you do something praiseworthy, accept the applause graciously.

Take time to publicly acknowledge those on your team who have contributed to a success—they’ll appreciate the applause as well.