Giving and Receiving Criticism, Part 2

Yesterday we looked at the subject of giving correction in a biblical manner. There is, however, the flip side of the coin which deals with how to receive it. Proverbs has much to say about how a wise man becomes even wiser after correction, and how a fool despises any type of rebuke. None of us want to be labeled by Scripture as a fool, but I must say that few people receive good correction well. So what does God tell us?

Avoid being defensive. Realize that the one who comes to us may very well have some good advice that will help us in our careers, home life, and other relationships.

Always view correction as protection. Even if the person who performs the surgery fails to do it skillfully, it may benefit you in the long run. Don't focus on how it was said, but on the truthfulness of what was said.

Recognize that you don't see yourself the way others do. We generally have a higher view of how we come across which is why we relate to others the way we do. We feel it is right. Those who are around us most feel the radiation of our personality that we don't experience. The source of radiation doesn't feel it. This is why we need honest feedback from those who love us.

Don't expect people to correct you in a godly manner. Most people don't know how to do this, including many believers. Consider the following.

1. What was said?
Ponder any truth that comes with the correction.

2. Who said it?
The amount of truth is directly proportional to the credibility of the one who said it.

3. Let them say it.
You can dig through and remove the bones later.

I hope this has been of some value to you. Now let's put some feet to it and carry it with us wherever we go. That's the way I see things.