FAVORED Publications SUMMER 2013 | Page 4

Lifestyle   The way we respond to criticism pretty much depends on the way we respond to praise. If praise humbles us, then criticism will build us up. But if praise inflates us, then criticism will crush us; and both responses lead to our defeat. Author: Warren Wiersbe How do you respond to criticism? Face it, during a life time, we will have to endure hundreds of people who not only tell us what we cannot do, but what we can't accomplish. However as Christian our response should be “If God is for me, who can be against me?” No matter who you are, or what you want to accomplish, no one should be able to move us away from what God has in store for us. The Holy Spirit is the only critic’s we need to heed, and this can be through our Godly leaders, mentors, and friends. If God is for you, who can be against you? (Romans 8:31). Which also begs the question, "Why do we fear criticism?" Even Jesus had his critics –those who wanted to prevent Him from accomplishing His purpose in the earth. Take the instance of Luke 4:30, those in His hometown became furious when He said He was sent by God- to the point of attempted murder by mob. Jesus’ response? He went His way. Onto His God-given purpose, even if no one but God agreed. Taking time to respond to His critics would have caused him delay in destiny. Unless, prompted by the Holy Spirit, the best way to move on to God's purpose for us is to ignore critics. If you study the Scriptures, men and women who were called to do something significant for God experienced criticism. Noah's was mocked during his call to build the ark. Take Moses, he cried out to God before his critics. Paul was labeled as overzealous, short ugly man Do yourself a favor, overcome people and move into your destiny. 4