Responding To Criticism

In the postmodern world today, criticism is no longer an alien word nor it's uncommon. Everyone has a right to voice their opinion and not accepting others'. Problem is today, even in the postmodern era, people are not respecting the rules of the game.

Most people are trying to enforce or brainwash others to accept their opinion/criticism. Instead of playing the fair game by voicing out our criticism, we expect others to follow suit otherwise, you're on the other side of the line.

So, how do we as Christians supposed to act when we're facing criticism, from both internally and externally? A lot of Christians would have surrendered or "submitted" to the criticisms to reduce any further confrontations or arguments. Some just don't have the principle to stand firm as they do not know what they're doing in the first place.

Is that how Christians are supposed to act? I'm not saying, we should debate to the end or involved in fist fights but how are we supposed to react?

If Christians surrender or crumble under criticisms, Noah wouldn't be able to build the Ark, Moses wouldn't be able to lead the Isrealites out of Egypt, Paul wouldn't be able to share the good news to the gentiles and Jesus would have run away from His destiny!

Criticism can easily destroy you like a rock crushing on an ant. It can left you doubting your own abilities. It can cause you to doubt God. It's one very serious problem if not dealt with properly!!

Let's see how we should respond according to the bible.

Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. 1 Peter 2:12

The most important thing is a godly life. In everything you do, try to live a life that's near to perfection. Though it's hard, we need to remind ourselves daily who are we living our lives for every single day. As written in the Purpose Driven Life, every single items in your life is a test.

We are not told to defend ourselves by words rather we're told to live a good life. It doesn't mean you don't have explain your actions though. We need to explain our actions or motives to avoid misunderstandings. God will defend us when the day comes, we just need to have faith in Him.

If they still don't accept it, then you need to stand firm and do not be fallen. Of course having said that, you need to know in everything you do, it has to be bibically consistent. Seek advice or guidance from elders or pastors if you're unsure.