FCA Impact Play:
Profit
From Criticism
READY:
“A
rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes
a fool” –Proverbs 17:10
SET:
It’s
been my experience that criticism is always difficult to accept,
but if I receive it with humility and desire to improve my
character it can be very helpful. According to Proverbs 17:10,
only a fool doesn’t profit when rebuked for his mistakes.
Some
time ago I read an article about criticism and that said when
you’re criticized you ought to ask yourself whether the
criticism has any truth to it and if it does, then learn from
it, even when it’s given with the wrong motive and spirit.
The
article gave four suggestions: First, commit the matter to God,
asking Him to remove all resentment on your part and teach you
the needed lesson. Second, remember that you are a sinner and
that the one who has criticized you doesn’t begin to know all
there is about you. Third, if you have made a mistake or
committed a sin, humbly confess it to the Lord and to anyone you
might have hurt. Fourth, be willing to learn, be coachable,
you’re not infallible, you need God’s grace and wisdom every day
to keep you running the race He has set out for you.
Do you
find yourself making excuses when you’re criticized? Shed the
facade and face reality. Excuses are the losers' way out. They
will mar your credibility and stunt your personal growth, accept
what’s true and act on it. Become a stronger person, be wise,
profit from criticism.
GO:
-
How hard is it for you to receive criticism?
-
Do
you find it easier to make an excuse for your mistakes?
-
What does God need to deal with in your life first so you
can profit from criticism?
WORKOUT:
Proverbs 9:8
Proverbs 13:1
Proverbs 27:5
Proverbs 28:23
OVERTIME:
Lord, help me to profit from criticism. Give me the wisdom and
humility I need so that I may spiritually grow. Amen.
