That tells a lot about a person, eh?
I've been criticised a fair share in the last few years. Some of it very justified. Very. And looking back, I think I've had plenty of practice at learning how to take it well!
Some of it I had to look at who was doing the criticising and pray that I would have discernment to see if they were wise or foolish. Does that sound mean? Ah, don't the Scriptures tell us to do just that?
Anywho - today's Proverbs is a good 'un. I'm not a huge fan of The Message version, but I thought it post-worthy this time...
7-12 If you reason with an arrogant cynic, you'll get slapped in the face;
confront bad behavior and get a kick in the shins.
So don't waste your time on a scoffer;
all you'll get for your pains is abuse.
But if you correct those who care about life,
that's different—they'll love you for it!
Save your breath for the wise—they'll be wiser for it;
tell good people what you know—they'll profit from it.
Skilled living gets its start in the Fear-of-God,
insight into life from knowing a Holy God.
It's through me, Lady Wisdom, that your life deepens,
and the years of your life ripen.
Live wisely and wisdom will permeate your life;
mock life and life will mock you.
We've been talking with Ethan about how he takes criticism. Trying to help him to practice humility even when he feels it is unjust. This is a hard lesson to learn! But a necessary one to teach.
Whose your biggest critic? Is there some truth to be found in their advising?
How do you respond to criticism? If it is unjust? If it is just?
Turn the other cheek? It's just so hard! We want justice. We want to take up for ourselves, to protect and defend our pride...
ReplyDeleteHi Jamie --
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing.
I do my best to keep an open mind to criticism to see if there are real lessons to be learned. however, that can be hard to do. if it is unjust -- I hope I can just roll with it and not give a sarcastic answer like, "hmm. that is an interesting thought. thanks for sharing."
your friend,
Danny
Ah, yes, cheek turning vs defending til exhausted, I still have room to grow in that area...
ReplyDeleteDanny, me too! I've been trying to keep an open mind in case I really don't know it all! haha
I had also put some thought into who do I try to maybe give some advice to that isn't at a place to take it just yet, and who am I enabling by not speaking up?
Thin line, I suppose.