HOW TO DEAL WITH CRITICISM
To one who listens, valid criticism
is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry. (Proverbs 25:12 NLT).
There is both constructive and destructive criticism. The intention of some people is to help and edify us, and others only want to destroy us.
But we can take advantage out of both types of criticism if we are wise.
If I am an insecure person, I will feel attacked and get defensive whenever someone criticizes me, but if I am wise, I will find something to learn out of any type of criticism.
How to deal with criticism?
- If what they’re saying about me is true, I will humbly learn from it and it will help me improve myself.
- If what they’re saying about me is false, I will ignore it. I won’t let it control my life, or my emotional state. I will not permit them to occupy my mind or fight with them.
Sometimes, when people criticize us it’s because of ignorance, or because they do not know what we know or haven’t lived what we have. They have not achieved what we have achieved and don’t have the experience, so it’s easy for them to attack us.
But, the wise listen to all criticism, both well and ill intentioned. Learn from all of them, from your friends and your enemies. Retain the constructive criticism and ignore the destructive ones.
- When I react like Jesus, I resemble him more. Let’s not react with a bothered attitude when we are criticized, but with humility and love.
But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! (Matthew 5:44 NLT).
If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat.
If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads, and the Lord will reward you. (Proverbs 25:21-22 NLT).
Think about it:
How much do you respond to criticism?
Have you let any criticism affect you emotionally?
What advantage have you taken out of constructive criticism?