A Better Option To Criticizing

It is so easy to find fault with what others are doing and to criticize them.  The truth is, it doesn't help to focus on anyone’s flaws and failures, and it distracts from the time and energy we give to God's transforming work in our own lives.

While we may think that we are controlling and changing other people by criticizing them, it rarely has that effect.  God has a better option for us today. God’s word reminds us:

Say only what will help to build others up and meet their needs. Then what you say will help those who listen.

Ephesians 4:29

It’s important to know and follow truth, as God has given it to us in the Bible.  We may disagree with the position another takes but we need to be careful and respectful in how we share our positions and respond to the positions of others.

Let’s ask God for wisdom, generosity of heart, and courage to speak the truth in love:

Heavenly Father,  We each have different challenges and character flaws, but God, we know You are working for positive change in all of us when we turn our will and our life over to Your care.

In the same way others accept us in our growth and change process, we pray to be gracious in how we accept others who are at a different place in life or their journey than us. 

God’s grace has been given to me. So here is what I say to every one of you. Don’t think of yourself more highly than you should. Be reasonable when you think about yourself.

Romans 12:3

Particularly when someone is struggling, instead of criticizing them, we ask You God to help us find opportunities to pray for them and even with them, if it is appropriate, so we support their healing and growth. 

Forgive us Lord for thinking we are any less flawed than anyone else.  Thank You for Your grace that is available to transform the thinking of all of us and deal with all our character defects.  Make all of us more like Jesus, we pray.  Help us to choose only to bless others today.  Amen

What’s that better option to being a critical person? Remember God’s acceptance of us in times of our own weaknesses and say only those things that build others up.  It won’t just be us who will have a better day if we put these principles into action today.