Criticism, even when it seems unfair, can become an opportunity to really mature in Christ.
Hi, I’m Joni Eareckson Tada, and I often say that my husband is my sharpest critic. My long-time friend Judy can be pretty quick to criticize me, too. But way back, I asked them to help me grow, to show me my blind spots, tell me when I’m off base, nail me when I deserve it. True, it’s hard to take their criticism: it makes me feel red-faced and sometimes ashamed [which, by the way, only reveals my pride]. But that red-faced shame won’t last for long if my goal really is to really change, to put off the old and put on the new. It’s why I so love reading Psalm 51, King David’s response when Nathan the prophet confronted him about his adultery and murder. David knew he had to change; he knew he had to put off the old and strive for the new. So, remember, criticism, even when it seems unfair, can become an opportunity to really mature in Christ. As Proverbs 6 says, “correction… Is the way to life.”
© Joni and Friends