Sometimes life can seem like living on a stage being viewed by an audience of critics. We don’t like to be criticized, but it happens. We may find ourselves being criticized when we are wrong, and it will occur because we are all imperfect beings. However, we may also find ourselves being criticized when we are right by those who don’t want to agree. Therefore, a reality of life is we will at times find ourselves being criticized regardless of what we do. Let us continue doing our best anyway; especially as we seek to follow in the steps of Jesus. That following includes criticism as our Lord Himself — the only perfect being to walk the face of this earth — experienced.
When speaking to a crowd regarding John the baptizer and the varied responses to his teaching (Matthew 11:7-17), Jesus concluded by stating. . .
“(18) For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ (19) The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.” (Matthew 11:18-19 ESV)
Either way the criticism arose. Understanding that even in following in the Will of Jesus we will be criticized by the world, let us remember it is not the human view, but the Heavenly acknowledgment that counts! Therefore, when we are criticized, may we consider it in the same way in which we would eat fish; eat the meat and throw away the bones. In other words, listen for what may help direct our life in a right direction and set the rest aside. Seeking to please and glorify the Lord in all we do and say, wisdom will ultimately be evident. May the wisdom from above (James 3:17) continue to guide us onward and upward to the glory of the Lord!
Have a great day PRESSING ON IN THE WISDOM FROM ABOVE!
Carl
