Feb. 12: HANDLING CRITICISM

Do you get criticized very much? If so, remember, being criticized doesn’t have to be bad. It could mean that you are doing something good. Check out their criticism. Remember the words of the old Persian Proverb: “only fruit-bearing trees have sticks thrown at them”.
People who are wasting their lives are not criticized. People whose lives are characterized by ugly attitude or ugly speech or ugly actions are not criticized. People expect nothing from them. They are living down to their own low level of being. There has been no reason to raise the standard for them. People who aim to do good and be helpful to the community are visible by their efforts. It is clearly known they are living their lives to have the greatest possible impact.
A tree is known for it’s fruit. Hear Jesus in Matthew 7:16 (NIV) “By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.”
If you have committed your life to do good things, do good things. Criticism cannot hurt you or stop you. “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 NIV) You see, your motivation for your action will largely determine your reaction to criticism. A pure heart and good intentions doesn’t have to be explained. In fact, it is a definite compliment to be criticized by certain people. It clarifies for you sometimes that you are definitely on to something good.
Consider the source of the criticism. Pray for the person criticizing. Do a prayerful review of the whole situation. If adjustment is needed, make it. Then proceed ahead doing good.

“Thank you, God, for your evaluation of my life. I learned so much
from it. Help me to learn from other’s criticism when I hear it. Amen”