I’m always thinking about inventions and engineering ideas. It’s in my blood. It’s my career. It’s how God wired me. One of my favorite shows is How It’s Made, where they take ordinary products—from kayaks to cowboy boots—and reveal the fascinating process behind manufacturing them.
Recently, while drawing plans for a future backyard deck, I came up with what I thought was a pretty clever idea. I sketched out a unique clip that I’m sure has never been made before. I spent most of the next day chewing on it at work before finally running it past my (coworker) uncle. Honestly, I expected something like, “That’s a pretty good idea,” or “I think that could work.”
Instead, he said, “Nah, you’re overthinking this.”
Balloon officially deflated.
On the drive home, I replayed his words in my head. But then I sat down at my computer and drew it up anyway. Why? Because our world is filled with inventions that somebody once laughed at. Behind countless breakthroughs are inventors who ignored the scoffs, doubts, and dismissive opinions and kept moving forward.
That got me thinking about Paul. When God called him, Paul didn’t gather a committee. He didn’t poll his friends. He didn’t seek validation from people who might not understand what God was doing. Scripture says, “Immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood.” Paul understood that the fastest way to derail his purpose was to organize an opinionated committee.
Paul knew God had spoken, and God’s voice carried more weight than everyone else’s opinion.
There is wisdom in seeking counsel, but there are times when the clearest thing we can do is obey what the Lord has already made clear. If God has directed your steps, don’t let the discouragement of others become the steering wheel of your life.
Everybody has an opinion about what you should do. Make sure God’s opinion comes first.
dailyarmor.blog 
When we hear from God, we’re strengthened to ignore the doubters—no longer even ignoring them! Thanks for today’s inspiration to put God first in all we do.
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That’s true…there are times when the scoffers totally derailed my zeal, and there are times when my zeal was an unstoppable freight train on the path of accomplishment…I prefer the latter but the former is always a check for my motives. Have a blessed day Grant!
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Amen! Sometimes it’s hard to drown out the voices of this world. The secret is to be quiet in God’s presence to hear HIS voice. His opinion is all that matters! Good luck with your clip, and have a blessed day, Eric.
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Thanks Heather, I will explore all options with the clip and may determine that Uncle was right. If so, it wasn’t meant to be anyway…then full steam ahead to the next idea!😆
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Dr.Bob Sr. said you and God make a majority in any community. make sure you get a patent on that new device you’ve designed.
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Dr.Bob Sr. said you and God make a majority in any community. make sure you get a patent on that new device you’ve designed.
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I have heard that before, and it’s true! We’ll see what happens with the invention, maybe nothing…need to explore it further.👍🏻👍🏻🙏🙏
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When anyone would burst my bubble over something, I’d plow forward to prove them wrong. We need to use the gifts God blesses us with and give Him glory for our accomplishments. Great post, Eric. 🙂
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You and I are alike in that regard, Nancy…I grew up with a chip on my shoulder to prove everyone wrong. It both got me into trouble and accomplished a lot in life. Now, I feel too old for the physical feats but am always up for mental gymnastics to prove them wrong.😆 but I’m older and more willing to BE wrong also. 👍🏻
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As a middle child, I can relate to the feeling of having my enthusiasm and excitement crushed. My dad and two older brothers were quick to dismiss my interest in almost anything.
I appreciate your suggestion of seeking guidance from God. After all, we’re all imperfect individuals. Keep refining your ideas, brother Eric. While your uncle may have a valid point, he may not have—it’s important to consider all perspectives. Time will ultimately reveal the truth.
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That’s where I land also…I’m discovering that I’m a lot less crushed by doubters and scoffers as I get older…more willing to be wrong if it saves time. While my balloon can still get deflated, it’s not devastating if it saves me wasted effort. I only have so much time and don’t want to waste it chasing “invention rabbits”. 🐇
Have a blessed day brother David!👍🏻🙏
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This is very wise counsel brother Eric. I can recall past occasions when some folk poured cold or scalding water on my ideas to share the Gospel. Mostly I went ahead and saw results even if they were small. God bless your endeavours brother!🙏
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Thanks brother Alan! Ice cold and scalding water both have the same response from me: resistance!🤣 have a blessed day, brother!
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