Conquering a Critical Spirit: Put Off Tearing Down and Put on Building Up a 7 - Day Plan by Shannon McCoySample

Choosing Empathy

I’ll never forget the day I made a huge mistake at work. In a frantic rush to meet a deadline, I sent out a report with a critical error. My heart dropped the moment I realized what I had done. I felt like hiding in the bathroom and never coming out. The humiliation was overwhelming, and I tried to brace myself for the harsh criticism I was sure would come. When my manager called me into his office, I was expecting chastisement. But to my surprise, he looked at me with genuine concern and asked, "Are you okay?"

His unexpected empathy was a balm to my soul. Rather than tearing me down, he showed me the grace that I desperately needed. It was a demonstration of how powerful empathy can be in turning a crushing situation into one of care and understanding.

As Christian women, we are called to demonstrate Christ’s love in all of our interactions. One of the most impactful ways we can do this is through empathy. Empathy allows us to step into someone else’s shoes to understand their feelings and experiences. But even more than that, empathy is a way to build others up when they’re struggling, offering grace when they need it most. Proverbs 12:25 reminds us, "Anxiety in a person's heart weighs him down, but a kind word cheers him up."

The Power of Empathy

Empathy is not about fixing someone’s problem but about walking alongside them, offering support and compassion. Romans 12:15 reminds us to "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." Empathy is about being present with someone in their highs and lows, building them up rather than criticizing or judging them.

Jesus is perfectly modeled empathy. In John 11:35, Jesus wept with Mary and Martha over the death of their brother Lazarus. He didn’t minimize or dismiss their sorrow. Instead, He entered into their grief with them.

Choosing Empathy Over Criticism

Choosing empathy requires us to set aside our own judgments and our need to be right. When we choose empathy, we conquer the critical spirit that seeks to tear others down. Empathy invites us to listen deeply, respond with grace, and offer words that build up rather than harm others. Through empathy, we reflect the heart of God by bringing healing and encouragement to those who need it most.

Reflect: Today, ask God to help you build others up through empathy. Consider how you can build others up by offering kindness and understanding instead of criticism. Let your words and actions be a source of comfort and strength for someone in need.

Pray: Lord, give me an empathetic heart that can build others up with words of grace and understanding. In Jesus’ name, Amen.