Being Happy in an Unhappy WorldNäide

If we are going to be happy in an unhappy world, it’s vital that we learn how to respond to criticism in a redemptive way. We need the skills and wisdom to receive constructive criticism with grace and humility. We need to learn how to let hurtful insults and slander roll off us like water on a duck’s back.

The person who is never criticized is probably not breathing. Here is the threefold key to avoiding all criticism in this world: Say nothing, do nothing, and be nothing.

The critic has no dreams. He just rehearses past defeats and celebrates the stumbles of others. He never sees opportunities, just obstacles. He knows no delight, no joy, and no peace. He is unhappy. So, he searches for faults in other people as though they were buried treasure. He’s convinced others have all the advantages and he has only disadvantages.

If we’re not mature enough to receive valid criticism, we’re not mature enough to handle praise. There are two kinds of criticism: constructive and destructive.

- Constructive criticism attacks the problem, not the person. Constructive criticism seeks to restore. Constructive criticism says: I may not like what you do, but I like you.

- Destructive criticism attacks the person and ignores the problem. It seeks merely to tear down the person rather than provide a solution that builds up. It is designed from the outset to hurt, to create self-doubt, to foster suspicion. It’s one of Satan’s favorite weapons for destroying friendships, marriages, and churches.

There are times when unpleasant truths do have to be told. Here are four questions to ask in handling these difficult situations:

1. Is what I’m about to say absolutely true?
2. Is it necessary to tell it to this audience, at this time, under these circumstances?
3. Is it fair to all concerned?
4. Are my motives pure?

If Jesus promised that criticism would be the result of living a godly life in a godless society, why should we be so surprised and upset when it comes? One reason is that many of us were raised with the notion that we must please everyone at all times. What rubbish!

Jesus was the Son of God. He was absolute perfection in human flesh. He couldn’t please everyone, and neither can we. Let your aim be Christ and Christ alone.