Is It Possible for Criticism to Offer Insight?

 Criticism is characterized as a hostile reaction to what is known to be unacceptable. The first response to criticism could be to defend yourself from an attack on your character and self-esteem rather than address specific ways to make healthy changes in your feelings and behavior.

An alternative to dishing out criticism is to offer corrections based on insight and wisdom, which might actually be accepted rather than rejected. No one is beyond needing corrections, so seek insight and wisdom for making corrections rather than becoming angry and withdrawing in silence.

Insight makes it possible to detect flaws in thinking as well as in understanding how to make healthy changes. Wisdom sees the value in changing one’s behavior and thinking. Proverbs 3:11 offers this advice: “When the Lord corrects you, pay close attention.” God desires to deliver you from trouble and sorrow because he cares for you.  

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Remember what I say and never forget it… Get wisdom and insight! ... Do not abandon [them, for they] will protect you and keep you safe.

~Proverbs 4:5-9 Good News Bible

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What Is the Root of Criticism?

Abusive criticism, defined as domestic violence, rarely fronts headline news because of the way family abuse is perceived. However, criticism rarely if ever has a positive intent except for the one finding fault and relaying its negative message.

An alternative to criticism is correction conveyed with positive regard for the one to whom it is directed. 

Criticism projects hostility while correction suggests a “non-attack” attitude. Correction’s objective is to convey understanding and knowledge, along with wisdom.

If you’re the criticizer, ask yourself, “What is there within me that produces this need to criticize the one I am supposed to love and cherish? Does God approve of the way I manage fear, anger, and hurt feelings?” Godly wisdom conveyed by the Holy Spirit makes corrections to your thoughts and feelings so encouragement and compassion can be expressed.    

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See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and through it many become defiled.

~Hebrews 12:15 Revised Standard Version

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How Is It Possible to Overcome Criticism?

Criticism cannot be separated from power struggles. In every relationship, there is a division of power, and that power is usually given according to position and responsibility. God designed the parents to share  power, while children’s influence must complement their maturity.

All power must include boundaries and guidelines for healthy living. Criticism that includes berating and insulting produces power struggles that may be impossible to reverse. People of all ages do not respond positively to criticism because it’s an assault on their personhood.

However the majority of individuals are receptive to correction when it addresses pertinent issues and engages in problem solving.

Listen to Proverbs 12:1: “To accept correction is wise, to reject it is stupid.” Ask God for wisdom, courage, and strength to accept it. Truth and honesty will overcome criticism.      

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Be honest and you show that you have reverence for the Lord; be dishonest and you show that you do not. 

~ Proverbs 14:2 Good News Bible

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