Embrace the challenge? In college, my roommate Mike and I shared a tough intimidating professor. Mike, however, wasn’t afraid to face the professor’s harsh questions, even when his answers were wrong. He’d smile and take it in stride. “It keeps me in shape,” he’d say, knowing that avoiding criticism might spare temporary pain, but facing it built long-term resilience.
Think about it. Mike also discovered that ducking criticism, something you and I do by nature, may save you some pain in the short run, but in the long run it never pays.
God’s Word: “Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding (Proverbs 15:31-32).”
Criticism can be discouraging, but avoiding it only hinders growth. Some feedback may be harsh, but learning to face it helps you improve. If you run from criticism, you’ll miss opportunities to discern what’s useful. Stand your ground, deflect harmful remarks, stay open to constructive feedback. Embrace the challenge—sometimes a well-placed criticism can be the key to growth and personal improvement.
We pray: “Heavenly Father, help me face criticism with a humble heart and gentle spirit. Give me the strength to stand firm, discerning what is helpful and deflecting what is harmful. Teach me to grow through feedback, embracing the challenge for my improvement. In Jesus' name. Amen.”
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matt 6:34)
Comments