From a child, you know firsthand the emotional sting that criticism brings. You do nothing wrong and then along comes severe criticism. On the other hand, you are to blame for doing something wrong, but the severe backlash of criticism that resulted was uncalled for. The emotional and mental feelings often result in spiritual and/or physical repercussions.
The cutting remarks of others often puts your life into a whirlwind, a spiral downward. An unknow author puts it this way, “Though sticks and stones inflict great pain, their hurt will fade away; but just one sharp and biting word brings harm that is here to stay.” Ouch! So many times, that hurtful comment will last for days, or months, or even years.
There is a remedy that will soothe that criticism with an ointment guaranteed to bring relief. That solution is stated by one of the greatest pastors and theologians of the twentieth century, H. A. Ironside. He said it like this, “If what they are saying about you is true, mend your ways. If it isn’t true, forget it, and go on and serve the Lord.” Re-read that quote and let it sink in. It starts with an honest evaluation of yourself. Look at yourself and determine if the criticism is true or not. Next, act accordingly.
King David is fleeing from his son, Absalom, who is pursuing King David to kill him and take over the kingdom of Israel. With King David in fast retreat from Absalom, David meets Shimei, who hurls insult after insult and curses David. His men want to kill Shimei, but David says, “Let him alone and let him curse…perhaps the Lord will look upon my affliction” (2 Samuel 16:11-12). David could have killed the man on the spot. Instead, David saw the criticism as possibly coming from God.
When you receive biting words, use Ironside’s advice—if true, change yourself and if not, forget it; in both instances, start to serve the Lord, again.
