Correctly Handling Criticism

As we grow older, we sometimes become set in our ways and unwilling to admit when we are wrong. Worse yet, if we don’t see eye-to-eye with others, we become critical of them and try to discredit their views.

For example, when some members disagree with the preacher’s remarks, they seem to be quick to judge motives. They may even suggest that the preacher is only looking for a paycheck.

This type of criticism happened to Amos about 750 BC. The prophet had been preaching a tough message about God’s judgment of Israel. Understandably, his message was unpopular. Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, was irritated and told Amos to go back to Judah. Amaziah accused Amos of being a prophet-for-hire, preaching just to make a living (Amos 7:12). Amos responded by saying that he was prophesying only because God had told him to speak (Amos 7:15).

Whether we are preaching or teaching, we must faithfully serve the Lord as Amos did, even if the task is unpleasant, unpopular, or rejected by our audience (2 Timothy 4:1-4; cf. Stephen in Acts 7:51-60). And if we’re in the congregation, we need to be sure that when we hear something we don’t agree with, we’re not actually resisting what the Lord wants us to hear and do.

Beloved, let us never fear criticism when we’re right, and never ignore it when we’re wrong. That’s correctly handling criticism.

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets