On The Hot Seat

How should I respond to criticism?

God’s Response

A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted. Proverbs 12:16

If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. Proverbs 15:31

Better to be criticized by a wise person than to be praised by a fool! Ecclesiastes 7:5

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 to hurt. Is the criticism just and true? Maintain a clear conscience by being honest and trustworthy. This allows you to shrug off criticism you know is unjustified. If criticism is justified, however, you are wise to listen and learn. Perhaps this person has been sent from God to warn you of something you need to know.

This Is Promising

Don’t speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters. James 4:11