Take it Slow

Coping with criticism is never easy, but the Bible has some practical advice to help us deal with it.
In the New Testament, James wrote, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
It’s important to hear what a critic says. Restate the criticism back to that person to be sure you correctly understand. It doesn’t mean the critic is right; it’s just that we need to humbly listen.
In the book of Proverbs it says, “A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult.”
The advice here is to take it slow when you’re insulted or criticized. Take a deep breath. And ask God for wisdom. Tell God what has happened and ask him if you should answer your critic or just let it go. Think through your response. Don’t escalate the situation; deescalate.
Then it’s always good to talk it over with a godly Christian. Many of us are deeply hurt by criticism and it’s easy to get defensive and angry. Talking to a wise and godly Christian can help to settle us down so we can process what’s been said and test some possible responses.
Personally, I’ve been enormously helped by trusted fellow Christians. They have helped me respond with strength and love. They have counseled me to accept the criticism and change. They have helped me to laugh it off when appropriate.
Coping with criticism is much easier if we hear out our critics, pray before responding and seek the counsel of godly Christians.

Related Scripture: James 1:19 & Proverbs 12:16

© 2007 Leith Anderson