Facing the truth about ourselves is difficult, especially when it's laced with criticism. Our first response is usually anger and the second is denial because these indicate something is flawed in our character. It strains our tolerance to listen to angry words directed against our character and then face the truth the criticism infers.
Have you ever said “thank you” to someone for pointing out flaws in your character or behavior? A speaker at a seminar suggested responding to the one expressing anger and criticism with a simple question: What else is there about me that you find objectionable?
Jesus drove the money changers out of the temple because they had made God’s place of prayer into a den of thieves. Thirty-seven years later that temple was dismantled and burned by the Roman army. History could have been written differently if the authorities had reacted positively to Jesus’ criticism and made the required changes.
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If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at
home among the wise. If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; but if
you listen to correction, you grow in understanding. Fear of the Lord teaches
wisdom; humility precedes honor.
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