CRITICISM OPENS DOORS FOR EXCELLENCE AND PRODUCTIVITY





By Rev. Michael Benson Ajayi
Rom 15:14-16”. ..   So, my dear friends don't take my rather bold and blunt language as criticism. It's not criticism. I'm simply underlining how very much I need your help in carrying out this highly focused assignment God gave me,…”. Msg Bible 
       Criticism is the act of expressing disapproval and of noting the problems or faults of a person or thing (Merriam –Webstar Dictionary)
             Nobody likes being told what they have invested time and resources in is not good enough. Prophet Job was a successful entrepreneur, preacher, husband and father;he suffered major losses because he could not stand being criticized Job 16:4 NLT “I could say the same things if you were in my place. I could spout off criticism and shake my head at you.” He preferred flattery even if he was heading in the wrong direction Job 16:5NLT “But if it were me, I would encourage you. I would try to take away your grief.” The pain associated with criticism is a pointer to life’s valuable lessons and part of our development process.For example, parents would not enrol children into schools where students do not participate in exams. Examinations are tests designed to constructively criticize our approach towards solving problems.It is an integral part of the learning process. .
         For fear of being criticized Peter promoted a wrong theology and was humiliated by a subordinate.  Gal 2:12-13 NLT says “He was afraid of criticism from these people who insisted on the necessity of circumcision.  As a result, other Jewish Christians followed Peter's hypocrisy.. .” Despite his position as the senior pastor of the church of Christ  he could not stand firm on controversial issues such as racial and gender equality in the house of God .This is one of the reasons behind the proliferation of satanic cults in some churches. When leadership cannot stand for the truth because of the fear of being criticized the result is chaos .
        Destructive criticism is not of God; it seeks to discourage us from serving God, the scriptures speaks against this  in Romans2:1- 4.Destructive criticism is when one criticizes another person for a crime one is guilty of . Destructive criticism hinders miracles in our lives and should be avoided. Another area that brings about negative criticism is in the management of public funds. Preachers of the gospel are expected to earn a living through business or jobs especially were offerings are insufficient to pay ministry bills (2Thess3:6-10). They are also supported by the generosity of those benefiting from their teachings (Gal.6:6,Phil4:16) this symbiotic relationship is crucial for a sustainable relationship between the teachers and their followers . However, in cases where money is set aside for a particular purpose, preachers are not to use such funds on themselves; this exposes the church of Christ to negative criticism. 2 Cor 8:20-22 (Mssg Bible)..” taking every precaution against scandal. We don't want anyone suspecting us of taking one penny of this money for ourselves.  We're being as careful in our reputation with the public as in our reputation with God.”
         The rejection of criticism leads to failure in relationships,marriages, poverty and homelessness (Pro 13:18). Most of what is ascribed to spiritual attacks is nothing but the effect of rejecting healthy criticism.The professional  boxer who desires to win must open himself or herself to criticism from a coach , likewise in other areas of life .The ability to receive criticism is a sign of spiritual maturity and progress. Prov 28:23Mssg bible says,” In the end, serious reprimand is appreciated far more than boot-licking flattery.”  Prayer : Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive grace for uncommon excellence and promotion in Jesus name.
 Prayer/counseling +234 809 853 6911,(partnership)+234 803 553 6911
pics credit: pixabay. com 

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