The
Pharisees kept trying to find fault with Jesus even though He was sinless. “And
the scribes and the Pharisees were watching
Him closely …in order that they might find reason to accuse Him” (Luke 6:7). If Jesus couldn’t escape
criticism, neither will you. Do you know any of these critics?
Perfectionist
Pete. Quick on the flaw.
No one can ever reach his unattainable expectations, including himself.
Sarcastic
Sally. Cuts others down by
using snide remarks to make herself look better.
Teasing
Tom.
Makes jabs by joking. Rips others apart under the guise of humor. Excuses
himself by saying, “Can’t you take a joke?”
Gossiping
Gilda.
Talks about people behind their backs but not to their faces. Exaggerates
others’ faults and shows no mercy.
Angry
Allen.
An “in-your-face” guy. His anger boils over and reprimands you face-to-face,
not caring how it devastates you.
Preying
Pauline.
Exposes others’ faults through prayer requests. “We need to pray for Marlene. I
think she might be pregnant and doesn’t know who the father is.”
Jealous
Jane.
Feels threatened by others and points out their imperfections to make her
rivals look ugly.
How
can we handle being criticized? The same way Jesus did. He only sought to
please His Father and ignored His critics. Paul said, “For am I now seeking
the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still
trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.” (Gal. 1:10).
Seek to please God more
than people and the sting of criticism won’t bother you. www.makinglifecount.net
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BIBLE STUDY: “Resolving
Conflicts”
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Making Life Count Ministries
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Prattville, Alabama 36068-0174
www.makinglifecount.net Twitter: @KentCrockett
