Criticism

Have you ever been unfairly criticized? It’s painful, especially if you have tried your best. There always seem to be people ready to criticize and instruct others—and often they are those with more reasons to be silent.

This has always been the case. Even Jesus suffered constant criticism during His ministry. Whatever He did, religious leaders criticized him. Jesus reflected, “For John [the Baptist] came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of Man [Jesus] came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners’” (Matt. 11:18-19). And yet, despite the disparagement, Jesus was always at peace.

There is good, constructive criticism, which tries to give ideas, to bring improvements, and to improve the world. It is constructive because it comes from humility and has the sincere intention to help. But there is another kind of criticism whose aim is not to “make things better” but to show “who is better.” It is destructive, it comes from pride, and deep down it is a form of judgment.

The Bible tells us not to judge others (Luke 6:37). Before criticizing, try this:

• Put yourself in the place of your neighbour, trying to understand their motivation.
• Humbly acknowledge that you lack information.
• If you still think there is something to be improved, speak sincerely with respect.

If you are the one being criticized:

• Be open to learn, no matter where the comment comes from.
• Trust in the Lord, knowing that only He is our Judge. One day He will reveal our true intentions (Rom. 2:16).