Question: Preacher, What suggestions can you give me about handling criticism?

Answer: I have recently read some thoughts that may help all of us to respond wisely to criticism. For one thin g, we ought to welcome criticism when it comes in a Christian spirit. If someone loves us enough to help us to be better people, we should be grateful. If criticism comes in a hateful, belligerent spirit, Jesus guides us: “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). Furthermore, it helps to realize that the only way to avoid criticism in some cases is to give up principles we ought to uphold and practices that we ought to continue. Plutarch said, “To be turned from one ’s course by men’s opinion, by blame and misrepresentations shows a man unfit to hold an office.” Integrity is a virtue for everyone. Jesus recognized that right living will bring criticism from the wicked: “Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! (Luke 6:26).