Thursday, January 14, 2010

The Pride of Criticism

Criticizing involves a lot of pride. It is very self-gratifying to find you have the “one up” on your church’s leadership or your fellow christians. Some would be so bold as to criticize the body of Christ as a whole. These people are seldom brave enough to confront the people to which they have so much to boast against behind their back.
Matthew 12:25 states that, “a house divided against itself cannot stand”. Criticism tears down and divides, it does not edify. It is like a sickness. What body functions well when it is sick?
Granted some people have great ideas for changes. Some people have great discernment for spiritual things. But you will forever hear me quote my father who says, “You are either part of the solution or you are part of the problem.” There is no middle ground; you’re either/ or. Criticism shows a lack of ownership for your own life and it’s function within the body of Christ. We criticize the church as though it is something outside ourselves. You, me, we are the church! Make yourself part of the solution by adopting humility and a desire to serve. Let the good fruit in your life gain you influence. Pray and fast. If the time ever comes where God releases you: confront in love and with humility and grace, knowing that you are trying to look past the plank in your own eye (Matthew 7:3).
Pray and discern what spirit your concerns come from. Do your words build you up or do they build up the whole body? Sow good seed with your words and attitude. Beware of the critical spirit in yourself and others, guard against it. If you have the arrogance to criticize, repent and ask for humility. Often criticism results from being hurt, seek healing!
“They will know us by our love.” (John 13:35) We are each known for many things. Are you known for your love?
Love is
Patient,
Love is kind.
It does not envy,
It does not boast,
It is not proud.
It is not rude,
It is not self-seeking,
It is not easily angered,
It keeps no record of wrongs!
Love does not delight in evil
but rejoices with the truth!
It always protects,
Always trusts,
Always hopes,
Always perseveres.
(1 Corinthians 13)

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