Solomon on Self-Promotion

Time with Solomon. There is not a better use of time than to grab a pen and some paper and reflect on the sayings of the wisest king to have ever lived.

Let’s start with Solomon’s perspective on self-promotion. Here is what he says:

“Don’t demand an audience with a king or push for a place among the great. It is better to wait for an invitation to the head of the table than be sent away in disgrace.” Proverbs 25:6

Notice the words demand and push. These are banners for the self-consumed and overly-ambitious. You have heard it said that patience is a virtue. It is.

Waiting is imperative. One doesn’t need to prove themselves, but rather wait for the right timing. In the proving and the clamoring for attention a person will end up receiving what they fear the most - rejection.

Pushing shows that a person is focused on their own timing. An invitation on the other hand is an honor because the influencer is ready to focus on the person they have invited, and thus have more receptivity and openness to listen.

Where are you pushing right now? What audiences are you demanding to be heard? Try to stop forcing your greatness on the masses and see what happens in the process.

Live full and live free!

Posted on September 10, 2009 in Personal Growth

2 Comments

Audrey Charles said...

So true. I have discovered that this is the essence of humility. Humility is power under restraint, which is what Jesus practiced so effectively and patterned for us to follow.

Shaun McCormick said...

Wow, makes me wonder how many self-promoters Solomon “sent away in disgrace”...must have been a daily ritual I suppose.

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