12 things to do when criticized

We will all be criticized sooner or later. Sometimes rightly, sometimes unfairly. Sometimes others' criticisms of us are harsh and undeserved. Sometimes we may need it. How do we respond to criticism? I haven't always done well and am still learning, but here are some things I try to think about when others criticize me.

Be quick to listen. (James 1:19)

This can be difficult to do because our emotions arise and our minds start thinking of ways to disprove the other person. Being ready to hear means that we really try to listen and consider what the other person is saying. We don't just delete it. Even if it seems unfair or undeserved.

Be slow to speak (James 1:19).

Don't interrupt or respond too quickly. Let them finish. If you speak too fast you may be speaking rashly or in anger.

Be slow to get angry.

Because? Because James 1: 19-20 says that man's anger does not produce God's righteousness. Anger will not make someone do the right thing. Remember, God is slow to anger, patient and long-suffering with those who offend him. How much more should we be.

Don't rail back.

“When (Jesus) was insulted, he did not insult in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued to rely on him who judges righteously ”(1 Peter 2:23). Talking about being accused unjustly: Jesus was, yet he continued to trust in the Lord and did not insult in return.

Give a polite answer.

“A sweet answer turns away anger” (Proverbs 15: 1). Also be kind to those who offend you, just as God is kind to us when we offend him.

Don't defend yourself too quickly.

Defense can arise from pride and being unattainable.

Consider what might be true in criticism, even if it is poorly given.

Even if it is given with the intent to hurt or mock, there may still be something worth considering. God could speak to you through this person.

Remember the Cross.

Someone said that people will not say anything about us that the Cross did not say and more, that is, we are sinners who deserve eternal punishment. So, in reality, anything anyone says about us is less than what the Cross said about us. Turn to God who accepts you unconditionally in Christ despite your many sins and failures. We can get discouraged when we see areas of sin or failure, but Jesus paid for those on the cross and God is pleased with us because of Christ.

Consider the fact that you have blind spots

We cannot always see ourselves accurately. Perhaps this person is seeing something about yourself that you cannot see.

Pray for criticism

Ask God for wisdom: “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will advise you with my eye on you ”(Psalm 32: 8).

Ask others for their opinion

Your critic may be right or completely out of the box. If this is an area of ​​sin or weakness in your life, others will have seen it too.

Consider the source.

Don't do this too quickly, but consider the other person's possible motivations, their level of competence or wisdom, etc. He may criticize you for hurting you or he may not know what he is talking about.