Sinful Responses To Criticism | Coping With Criticism – A Pastor’s Nightmare

I am not sure what exactly it is in a leader which makes them somewhat hostile when criticisms arise. Many times a spiritual leader will tend to respond to criticism in a sinful way. It might not be very noticeable at first, but the root of retribution could be just beneath the surface.

Personal Testimony
I know from my own actions that it is real easy to respond to criticism in a sinful way. We must be careful to be directed by the Holy Ghost when responding to anything, but especially criticism. I have hurt my closest family members and friends, more times than I care to think about, by letting my flesh control my mouth! I’ll bet you have done the same thing. God warns us about this in James 3:5-12.

Common Responses


Many times we respond inappropriately to criticism. Listed below are some common responses to, what could be, our best ally in practical Christian living:

  1. Anger
  2. Resentment
  3. Hostility
  4. Bitterness
  5. Evil Communication
  6. Gossip
  7. Retaliation
  8. Close Mindedness
  9. Loss Of Friendship
  10. Hurt Feelings… To The Extent That It May Be Irreparable
How To Respond Appropriately

  • THINK before you speak! – James 1:19
  • Remember that you do not have to respond immediately to what is being said. It is sometimes best to chew upon what has been handed to you! – Proverbs 27:6
  • Be polite and say, “Thank you!” – Proverbs 15:1
  • Try not to add any heat to the situation, no matter how awkward things might seem! – Proverbs 26:20
  • Spare your words. Remember that God is keeping a record too! – Proverbs 17:27-28
Conclusion

We are all human, but we can do our dead level best to respond to criticism in the right manner. Responding to criticism is crucial to Christian maturity. For many of God’s children, being criticized is what unravels us. Satan knows this and will seek to exploit it any time he gets a chance. Be on guard 24/7, especially if you are a pastor or spiritual leader.

Look For Our Next Post In This Series: What Goes Around, Comes Around  

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6016X: Whatever Happened to Worship? Whatever Happened to Worship?

By A.W. Tozer / Wingspread Publishers

Decrying much of contemporary worship as entertainment, Tozer says, “When we are worshipping…if the love of God is in us and the Spirit of God is breathing praise within us, all the musical instruments in heaven are suddenly playing in full support.” Originally preached as sermons at Avenue Road Alliance Church in Toronto, the chapters of Whatever Happened to Worshipconvey Tozer’s attitude and thoughts on Christian worship.

About Andrew Schank

Andrew Schank is an Independent Baptist Missionary/Pastor who loves to blog about spiritual matters! His main ministry website is http://www.togetherinthegap.com. Andrew is also a contributing author to two other blogs/websites including http://linked2leadership.com and http://www.ifbkjv.com. Pastor Schank's Church website is http://www.greatcommissionbaptist.org
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