Criticism

[Denise Stacy]

Criticism
Words can hurt. The qualities we condemn in others are often our own character flaws or defects. We tend to be quick to point the finger at someone else but we forget that when we do we have three more pointing at us. We should not try to change others, instead ask God to help us understand their feelings and to help us see our own flaws more clearly. People often criticize to take the focus off of the real issue. Sometimes when we have an issue with someone else we soon realize it’s you (Us) the one we really have the issue with. Nobody really likes criticism, but everybody can benefit from it when it is given away wisely and taken humbly. Maintaining your composure in the face of unjustified criticism can be a trying experience and an emotional drain, but if you can’t stop the criticism it is best to ignore it. So, instead of replying to criticism with a quick put down or cleaver remark, listen to what is being said. Learn from your critics this is the path to wisdom, you will either learn something about yourself or something about the one doing the criticizing. Jesus was criticized too. Remember that God knows what you are enduring, and he will vindicate you if you are in the right. Now when it comes to constructive criticism make sure it is done with love. Let no corrupt communications proceed out of your mouth, but rather that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29). If you feel that you must warn or caution someone of their faults, you should be sure that you are confronting them because you love them, not because you are annoyed, inconvenienced, or seeking to blame. We should encourage more and criticize less. Love, Denise
Dear Lord, let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight. I am so grateful for your presence and that you continue to work on, in and through me for your glory. AMEN, Amen, amen