What can mere mortals do to me?
—Hebrews 13:6
On October 30, 1974, Muhammad Ali and world heavyweight champion George Foreman stepped into the ring in Kanshasa, Zaire, for the fight dubbed “Rumble in the Jungle.”
Foreman’s strategy was to come on fast and take Ali out in round three. Ali’s strategy was to taunt the champ and wear him down: “Hit harder! Show me something, George. That don’t hurt. I thought you were supposed to be bad.” Foreman punched furiously and began to tire. In the eighth round, Ali unleashed a barrage of quick punches. Foreman’s legs buckled. Fight over.
Put-downs have many sources: schoolmates, co-workers, even spouses. Letting it get to you saps physical, mental, and spiritual energy. Instead, rely on God: “The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Heb 13:6).
Life is too short to waste
fretting about critics.