How to Face a Critic

By, Bethany Bowman

Over the years, you’ll receive your fair share of criticism. Some criticism will be helpful; some will be hurtful. Some will be absolutely on point; some will be completely off base. Some will be graciously well-timed; some will be painfully inopportune.

What do we do with criticism that will inevitably come our way?

1. Realize we’re all sinners. Think the best of the other person.

• Philippians 2:3-4, “Let nothing be done through strife of vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”

2. Respond with humility and thankfulness. Be kind.

• James 3:17, “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”

3. Remember that God is your Defender. Leave it in His hands.

• Psalm 91:1-2, “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.”

4. Release the words and the pain they may have caused to the Lord. Forgive.

• Ephesians 4:32, “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

• Matthew 6:14-15, “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

5. Rejoice that you can please God. It’s impossible to please all of the people all of the time

• Matthew 11:28-30, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and by burden is light.”

Today’s Takeaway:

Be humble and realize you have only One to please. Focus on pleasing Him.