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Right in Your Own Eyes

October 25th, 2008 by Jeremy Sprouse

Don’t we hate to receive criticism? We can always think of a million reasons any criticism is wrong (e.g., they don’t know the whole situation, they just don’t like me, they are just a bunch of hypocrites, etc). The fact is we are often right in our own eyes (Proverbs 21:2). As such we tend to respond harshly to criticism or simply ignore it. This can be a dangerous situation. People being right in their own eyes led to the turmoil in Israel during the period of the Judges (Judges 17:6, 21:25). Proverbs tells us that those who are right in their own eyes can be fools (12:15) and those who harden themselves to reproof can end up permanently broken (29:1). In addition, by ignoring criticism we can be missing out on much needed help from someone speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). So, how should we respond to criticism?
First, we need to stifle negative reactions. A harsh response or counter criticism only makes the situation worse. Solomon said: “Through insolence comes nothing but strife” (Proverbs 13:10). Often the reason we reject criticism has nothing to do with the criticizer and everything to do with ourselves. We may reject criticism out of insecurity, perfectionism, pride, and arrogance. These flaws within ourselves can lead us to reject wise counsel (Proverbs 15:12). If we take a moment to listen, however, we might learn to be a better person.
Second, we need to learn from the criticism. Regardless of how baseless we might think the criticism is, regardless of how harsh or rude the criticism may be, most criticism has a least a kernel of truth to it. When it comes down to it, criticism is instruction. Most people love to learn, but they hate to be taught—especially by criticism. There is danger of going astray by ignoring instructions from others (Proverbs 10:17). On the other hand, those who listen to instruction and reproof will dwell among the wise (Proverbs 9:9, 15:31). We need to examine ourselves honestly and consider what is valid about the criticism. Asking a friend who will tell you truth can also be helpful in determining the validity of any criticism as well. If there is anything at all valid about what was said we should take steps to change and act upon this new information. If we view this as an opportunity to learn we can turn a negative into a positive.
Third, we need to thank the critic. Regardless of how they acted and what their intentions were, you can use what they said to improve your life. As such they brought something valuable into your life. To those who listen, reproof can be like a precious treasure (Proverbs 25:12). In addition, reacting this way can turn a harsh critic or enemy into a life-long friend (Proverbs 25:21-22).
Criticism is difficult to take constructively. It is hard to set aside our emotions and respond in a positive manner, but doing so will reap huge benefits in our life by creating an atmosphere of growth. Remember, the way which seems right to us can lead to death (Proverbs 14:12, 16:25). We need to heed the fresh perspective given to us by others.

This entry was posted on Saturday, October 25th, 2008 at 10:15 am and is filed under Bulletin Articles.

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