Learning to Deal with Criticism

Criticism… not a nice word for most people, but something that everyone has either given or received at some point in their life. It can be a hard thing to bear up under because it comes to us in the place of communication through and with the power of words. Word can hurt or heal; as the Bible says, life and death are in the power of the tongue. 

What the world calls criticism can, if our words are used correctly can be an expression of speaking the truth in love. Also, we can tear someone down with our words crush them heart and wound them deeply. The surgeons knife can cut away cancer and other things and bring healing or that knife can harm if it’s in the hands of someone who is unskilled. 

Listen to this message and consider growing when the truth is spoken to you in love as well as consider how you speak the truth in love when it’s your place to do that. Are we building up in love or are we tearing down? Are we creating opportunities for growth in other people and are we recognizing our moments for growth in our own lives?

This message was originally given in the context of a leaders gathering, but it applies to every person. Where the words “ministry” are used, apply that to whatever area of society God has called you to.