A Prayer About Criticism

A prayer about Criticism

When I disapprove of others’ choices

Jesus,

Sometimes the people around me make choices that blatantly go against your laws. I can’t help disapproving, but I don’t always know how to respond. It’s tempting to lecture or to withdraw, but I don’t think either choice is what you would have me do. After all, you focused on finding those who were furthest from you and ministering to their needs. I want to follow your example, and that means looking past people’s behavior to their soul. I need your help for this, Lord Jesus. Open my eyes to see that these are the people who most need a godly friend. May I not turn away in judgment; rather, may I reach out and serve them in love.

When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.” Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled. . . . Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today. . . . For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” Luke 19:5-7, 9-10