Accepting Criticism August 29, 2015

Proverbs 10:17-18       He is on the path of life who heeds instruction, But he who ignores reproof goes astray. He who conceals hatred has lying lips, and he who spreads slander is a fool.…

Proverbs 6:23     For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and correction and instruction are the way to life,

Ecclesiastes 7:5     It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person than to listen to the song of fools.

Psalm 119:128     and because I consider all your precepts right, I hate every wrong path.

Proverbs 12:1-2     Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, But he who hates reproof is stupid. A good man will obtain favor from the LORD, But He will condemn a man who devises evil.…

Nobody likes criticism. It’s often unsolicited and rarely fun. Many times, we reject our critic’s words because of the harsh spirit in which they are spoken.

Yet God can take even a wrong attitude, bad timing, or harsh tone of voice and still tell us something we need to hear. That’s why we are wise to pay attention when someone critiques us. Invited or not, criticism forces us to examine ourselves and take notice of weak areas. This helps us discover who we really are and avoid unnecessary mistakes. If we fail to listen, our potential for mental, emotional, and spiritual growth is limited.

While not all opinions are valid, it’s important to respond well and evaluate criticism correctly. First, do not immediately reject the comment, blame the person, or defend yourself. Instead, consider what was said and ask God if He’s trying to tell you something. Then, thank the person for his interest in your growth, and explain that you’ll reflect on his observation. If he was sincere, he’ll be appreciative, but if his intentions were negative, this will disarm him. Next, evaluate the criticism and determine what exactly is under scrutiny—your beliefs, your character, your behavior, or God? 

Finally, view this as an opportunity for growth, and, if necessary, apologize to the person you’ve offended.

Jesus died on the cross for our sake, so we as believers are certain of His approval. When we remember this, the disapproval of others will take on less significance and cause less hurt. Then, as we learn to respond correctly, we will be blessed to find ourselves growing.