Critical People

“To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, be nothing.” - Aristotle

HOW DO YOU RESPOND TO CRITICAL PEOPLE?

1) OFTEN, YOU DON’T RESPOND.

When they hurled their insults at him [Jesus], he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.

2) SOMETIMES, YOU RESPOND CAREFULLY.

Now the Ephraimites asked Gideon, “Why have you treated us like this? Why didn’t you call us when you went to fight Midian?” And they challenged him vigorously. 2 But he answered them …

… When the men of Ephraim heard Gideon’s answer, their anger subsided.

NLT

3) OCCASIONALLY, YOU LISTEN AND MAKE A CHANGE.

If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. 32 If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself … NLT

4) ALWAYS WORK TO GUARD YOUR HEART.

Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. NLT

So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. … 12 Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. 13 So let’s stop condemning each other. … , NLT