5 Things to Do When Criticized.

If you want to be a criticized person all you have to do is do something. The truth is there will always be those vision vandals, managers of the mundane, champions of the Eeyore fan-club that like to drain your enthusiasm and criticize your actions. So how do you react when criticized? Here are five steps to handling criticism well.  Okay, maybe not well, but at least a bit better. . . 

1. Consider the Source—It may be this is all you need to do.  If the source is way off base, then move on and don’t worry about it.  But sometimes, the source of criticism has merit and the criticism isn’t meant to be vindictive but constructive.  Sometimes the critic has a sincere desire to help.

2. Consider the Criticism—Criticism always stings.  But beyond the sting, there is often some truth that may help you to do better in the future.   In most cases, criticism requires some type of response.  Often all people want is to be heard.

3. Check your Heart—Pray about it! Perhaps some apathy, anger or attitude have taken up residence within you. The Lord may show that sin has crept in and the criticism can be God’s tool to renew your heart and help you to do better in the future.

4. Correct as Led—Having considered the matter and prayed about it correct as wisdom and the Holy Spirit lead you. It may be you change nothing, or God may use the criticism to take you to a whole new level.

5. Continue in Ministry—Whatever happens, do not quit honoring and serving God. “Jesus said you are blessed when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say everykind of evil about you because of Me (Matthew 5:11).” There’s no quitting in ministry.

There will always be people who don’t understand you. If you spend all of your life trying to live up to everyone’s expectations, you are going to be exhausted. Do one thing and do it really well: honor God. In every word, action, attitude, honor Him.  Collisions 3:17— And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

For more thoughts on this listen to the Enjoying the Journey podcast:
http://www.buzzsprout.com/17504/147924-faces-enjoy-the-journey