Tag Archives: Criticism

No comments

What Goes Around, Comes Around | Coping With Criticism – A Pastor’s Nightmare

  By
There is an old saying where I grew up that went something like this, “What goes around, comes around!” Not only was that true in my life as a teenager, but also into adulthood. Hard lessons have been learned from this great axiom. When contemplating the subject of criticism, we find that nothing changes. In fact, this maxim’s accuracy is correct 100% of the time! Let us go a little further below the surface….

**********

Note Our Previous Posts In This Series:

Coping With Criticism – A Pastor’s Nightmare | Introduction
Thankfulness For Those Who Criticized You
Criticism – A Gift From God
An Important, Self Examining Question
Examining The Sting Of Criticism
Assumptions On Our Part
Sinful Responses To Criticism.

**********

General Bible Principle…
In Hosea 8:7, we find a phrase where this philosophy of “what goes around, comes around” could have been derived. Speaking of judgment upon Israel, Hosea remarks about the fruits of their unrighteousness coming home. The Apostle Paul spoke about this same idea in Galatians 6:7-9. We reap what we sow! The fact of the matter is that whatever we do in life, good or bad, will have consequences.

Though many verses of Scripture can be used to form a foundation for this idea, no other biblical event depicts this more than Haman and the Jews. You can find out more about this event by reading the Old Testament book of Esther, if you are not familiar with it. In this Biblical record, you will find a man who criticized, demonized, and sought the destruction of Mordecai, a Jew. He actually had gallows built so he could hang Mordecai! In spite of his best efforts, Haman was the poor soul who was put to death by those gallows.

From My Own Experience…

Growing up in a perpetual set of difficult circumstances, I was very prone to share my “mind” about others… without the least bit of reservation. Though very much a fault, it has taught me many valuable lessons. One of which is that I best be careful about pointing out fault in the lives of others. Grandma had a saying that we should sweep around our own door before doing so around someone else’s! I think she was very wise!

I do not have a shortage of personal stories of where I put my foot in my mouth, and did exactly what I accused others of doing. I have spoken very harshly about someone and they immediately performed a good deed for me… putting me to open shame! I share this in brevity to make it absolutely clear, no matter who we are, people are susceptible to criticize others and reap the consequences of their actions!

Encouragement For Today…

Knowing that criticism can be very helpful, no matter the motivating purpose behind it, God will see to it that right prevails in His timing. Mordecai had a rough time with Haman, but God worked things out. In my arrogance and stupidity, I have made many critical mistakes; harshly criticizing other people. I have reaped, am reaping, and will continue to reap from these awful seeds I have sown. I know that other people who have done the same to me will endure the judgment of God as well.
ConclusionMake no mistake about this, God knows what is going on. Never is there a word spoken that He does not hear. Take courage in the Lord when you are insulted, defamed, demonized, and criticized. God will take care of your reputation. Learn what you can from the friend of criticism and move on!

Look For Our Last Post In This Series: The Danger Of Over-Reacting! Coming soon…

Related articles
Enhanced by Zemanta
_______________

Will You Consider Purchasing…

10801EB: Object Lessons: 100 Lessons from Everyday Life - eBook Object Lessons: 100 Lessons from Everyday Life – eBook

By Charles C. Ryrie / Moody Publishers

What good is a broken fingernail? what can you do with a frying pan, a hammer, and an egg? How is a balloon different from a brick? The world around us is full of items useful for interesting and meaningful object lessons. Dr. Ryrie uses pencils, light bulbs, sunglasses, and even the air around us to illustrate truths about salvation and the Christian life. All of the objects are simple and easy to find, and the lessons can be used for any group of any age. Children and adults alike will enjoy learning more when you present these fascinating illustrations.

No comments

An Important, Self Examining Question | Coping With Criticism – A Pastor’s Nightmare

  By
Usually a leader does not like to be questioned about their conduct or instructions. It is only natural to be a little defensive because of pride and such. After all, most criticism is, in the very least, critical in nature. However, the godly, and diligent spiritual leader will ask themselves an all important question when being criticized.

“Is This Something I Need To Correct Or Change?” 

As every leader would challenge others to do, so must the leader do in his/her life. When criticized, everyone needs to ask themselves an all important question, “Is This Something I Need To Correct Or Change?” If we are honest with ourselves, then we will have to admit that most of the time very little consideration is given to this question. Furthermore, when we do ask this question, many times, we hide the answer from others and ourselves.

A Caution Must Be Heeded…

“in every criticism there is an element of truth!“

For some reason, we think people are picking on us when they share a criticism or we think they are being OVERLY critical of something. For these reasons, we dismiss what was sent from Heaven to help us! How many times a day does a spiritual leader ask God for wisdom and instruction? They beg God for it, but won’t take it when it comes in the form of a criticism.  REMEMBER… in every criticism there is an element of truth!

EVERY Pastor…

Every pastor should be careful to ask themselves this question when someone approaches them with a criticism. The answer is very simple. We either say, “Yes!” or, “No!” If we need to work on the issue presented, then, by all means, implement a change or remedy so it won’t happen next time. If we see that the criticism is unfounded, then brush it off and move on. This question will work with any kind of criticism, constructive or non-constructive.

Bottom Line…

The truth of the matter is that if pastors/spiritual leaders are not willing to ask themselves this important question when criticized, then how can they preach or teach anyone else. Think about it… each time someone mounts a pulpit or lectern, they are preaching and teaching for a decision. They ask people to consider making some sort of change in their lives. If they are not willing to make changes in their own lives when confronted, then they are not much of a leader. In fact, they won’t be leading for very long!

Related articles

 

Enhanced by Zemanta
No comments

Sinful Responses To Criticism | Coping With Criticism – A Pastor’s Nightmare

  By
I am not sure what exactly it is in a leader which makes them somewhat hostile when criticisms arise. Many times a spiritual leader will tend to respond to criticism in a sinful way. It might not be very noticeable at first, but the root of retribution could be just beneath the surface.

Personal Testimony
I know from my own actions that it is real easy to respond to criticism in a sinful way. We must be careful to be directed by the Holy Ghost when responding to anything, but especially criticism. I have hurt my closest family members and friends, more times than I care to think about, by letting my flesh control my mouth! I’ll bet you have done the same thing. God warns us about this in James 3:5-12.

Common Responses


Many times we respond inappropriately to criticism. Listed below are some common responses to, what could be, our best ally in practical Christian living:

  1. Anger
  2. Resentment
  3. Hostility
  4. Bitterness
  5. Evil Communication
  6. Gossip
  7. Retaliation
  8. Close Mindedness
  9. Loss Of Friendship
  10. Hurt Feelings… To The Extent That It May Be Irreparable
How To Respond Appropriately

  • THINK before you speak! – James 1:19
  • Remember that you do not have to respond immediately to what is being said. It is sometimes best to chew upon what has been handed to you! – Proverbs 27:6
  • Be polite and say, “Thank you!” – Proverbs 15:1
  • Try not to add any heat to the situation, no matter how awkward things might seem! – Proverbs 26:20
  • Spare your words. Remember that God is keeping a record too! – Proverbs 17:27-28
Conclusion

We are all human, but we can do our dead level best to respond to criticism in the right manner. Responding to criticism is crucial to Christian maturity. For many of God’s children, being criticized is what unravels us. Satan knows this and will seek to exploit it any time he gets a chance. Be on guard 24/7, especially if you are a pastor or spiritual leader.

Look For Our Next Post In This Series: What Goes Around, Comes Around  

Related articles
Enhanced by Zemanta
_______________
6016X: Whatever Happened to Worship? Whatever Happened to Worship?

By A.W. Tozer / Wingspread Publishers

Decrying much of contemporary worship as entertainment, Tozer says, “When we are worshipping…if the love of God is in us and the Spirit of God is breathing praise within us, all the musical instruments in heaven are suddenly playing in full support.” Originally preached as sermons at Avenue Road Alliance Church in Toronto, the chapters of Whatever Happened to Worshipconvey Tozer’s attitude and thoughts on Christian worship.

  • join our mailing list
    * indicates required

    Powered by MailChimp