As we dive into listening this year, learning to listen to criticism might be our greatest challenge. But if we are going to remain in ministry, criticism is bound to come our way. And although critics are not always right, the Bible tells us repeatedly to listen to them (Proverbs 12:1; 19:20).
There are two opposing ways to respond to feedback. One is to close ourselves off to it. Hearing criticism is painful so it is tempting to try to avoid that painful emotion. Pride is a common pitfall here. We may convince ourselves the feedback is not true or make a mental list of all the faults of the other person. Instead of truly listening, we may focus on our strengths and the evidence that God is working through us.
This response is dangerous because it keeps us from growing. We all have weaknesses we are unaware of. We need others to help us see our faults.
Another possible response is to absorb the criticism too deeply and allow it to tell us something about our identity or calling. We begin to think that we are not good enough. We may feel ashamed or discouraged. This is also not God’s intent. When God brings correction, it is to help us be even better leaders, trainers, or ministers. It might be a painful process, but the ultimate goal is to strengthen us in our calling and identity.
Instead of a prideful response or a shame-filled response, we want to approach criticism with openness while being secure in our identity in Christ. We want to seek growth while knowing that we are dearly loved children of God.
Take a moment to review the following devotional and reflect on how to respond to criticism.
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