We know that criticism should be dealt with in a healthy way. However, sometimes we don’t know how to deal with it. A stick or a stone may break our bones. But we need the attitude that words will never break us. But we know the attitude we should adopt when the horns of criticism break the heart.
Always Expect Criticism
No matter how great we are, no matter how flawless our words and actions are, there are many people around us who will criticize us. There were many people who criticized John the Baptist and even Jesus. From that, we can understand that we will not be able to escape from critics even once. But the Bible gives us clear instructions. “A soft word turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger,” (Proverbs 15:1). We should face criticism with gentleness.
Criticisms are of Three Types
Criticisms are mainly of three types. From right, wrong, and opposite. Proper criticism is very important. We must believe that there is some truth in it, even if it is not 100 percent true. But the latter sometimes has the right point of view but not necessarily the way it is presented. Then we may think it is wrong. But we have to think whether we should accept anything in it. If there is something emotional, of course, we have to take that into account. Next comes the criticisms that arise from the opposition. Such criticisms, born of jealousy, anger, rage, and frustration, can be somewhat cruel and heartbreaking. But we must take special care to balance our minds by understanding this. It is better not to hesitate to answer such people. If we adopt that method, such critics will have to face the situation of humiliating themselves in front of others.
What does the Bible Say?
The Bible says this is the reward for those who accept sound criticism:”Whoever heeds life giving correction will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.”(Proverbs 15:31-32)
Even if there are wrong standards in criticizing us, there are some things we should keep in mind. “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly to everyone, an apt teacher, patient, correcting opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant that they will repent and come to know the truth and that they may escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.” (2 Timothy 2:24-25)
Criticism is a God-given means of great potential for self-correction. That is how we should see the exact criticism that God allows to come into our lives. This is an opportunity to make corrections and make ourselves better. When people criticize us out of anger, jealousy, frustration, and hatred, we forgive them. And Jesus teaches us to pray for them and try to bless them. Their criticism cannot touch us. The first step is to understand that it is their problem.
So instead of being upset and hurting, let’s effectively use the great calling we have been given to bring joy and grace to that person’s life. But if even two percent of someone’s criticism is correct, we should recognize those two percent and try to correct them. Don’t get caught up in emotional distress over false criticism and listen to what the Bible says “No weapon that is fashioned against you shall prosper, and you shall confute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me says the Lord” (Isaiah 54:17).