IHS Together Radio (never ending) ECA International with your host Elmon Krupnik

Handling Criticism! Have you ever been made fun of or criticized for doing the right thing?  The Hebrew scriptures provide for us a story of doing the right thing and being criticized and made fun of for it.  The story is found in the Book of Nehemiah.  If you have gone through a time of opposition, Nehemiah offers some counseling in dealing with critics.  Please read the book of Nehemiah.  The destructive critics make their attacks personal.  They question your motives.  They spread rumors.  They run with other critics.  They resist change.  They are sarcastic.  They use intimidation.  They try to discourage those around you. How does one deal with destructive critics or criticisms?  The prophet Nehemiah used prayer.  When criticized, ask God if the criticism is just.  Pray for courage to change.  Pray for those who are doing the criticizing.  Pray for humility and the ability not to take things personal.  Pray for wisdom, strength, and discernment to keep doing what is right.  The prophet knew that the critics’ problems were not with him, but with God.  When you remind yourself God is in control, you recognize criticism for what it is and you do not allow it to dissuade you.  God was persistent in doing the right thing.  The best way at times to deal with critics is to outlast them, doing what you know God has called you to do. Many times the races that we have in life do not go to the swift, but to the one who perseveres.  If you are going through a time when it seems that everything you try is being met with opposition, if you feel like your critics are being destructive instead of constructive, recognize that when you step out on faith, follow God, and try to make a difference.  You will be criticized.  Expect it and deal with it through prayer, keeping the proper perspective, and being persistent. Blessings, CH K.