SOME UNSOLICITED ADVICE FOR YOUNG PASTORS

Be wary of praise.
You will get some.

There will, of course, be criticism,
much of it framed as "a suggestion"
and some of it will be hard to hear.

Which is why words of commendation
will be so welcome. You'll be tempted
to lap it up like a puppy at a milk bowl.
Yes, you did work hard on that sermon.
You thought the ending was especially strong.
No doubt it was.
Several people told you it was.

But now, let it go.

Be wary of praise.