Criticism
Criticism
How should I respond to criticism?
God’s Response
A wise person stays calm when insulted. An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies. Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Proverbs 12:16-18
It is better to be criticized by a wise person than to be praised by a fool! Ecclesiastes 7:5
My conscience is clear, but that isn’t what matters. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide. 1 Corinthians 4:4
If you are criticized, remain calm and don’t lash back. Evaluate whether the criticism is coming from a person with a reputation for wisdom and integrity. Ask yourself if the criticism is meant to heal or hurt. Is the criticism just and true? Maintain a clear conscience by being honest and trustworthy. This allows you to shrug off criticism that you know is unjustified. If criticism is justified, however, you are wise to listen and learn.
God’s Promise
If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. Proverbs 15:31
