Text: Nehemiah 4:1-3
INTRODUCTION
Criticism can be a powerful and debilitating force that can affect even the most committed individuals. However, the Bible provides valuable insights on dealing with criticism, as exemplified in Nehemiah 4. Nehemiah faced tremendous opposition while helping to rebuild Jerusalem. From his story, we can learn three valuable principles on how to handle criticism: staying focused on the mission that God has uniquely called us to fulfil, relying on God’s strength, and responding with wisdom and grace.
- Stay Focused on Your Mission
Nehemiah was mocked and ridiculed by his opponents, Sanballat and Tobiah (Nehemiah 4:1-3), for seeking to repair the wall. Despite the contempt and ridicule, Nehemiah continued with his work. He did not let negativity overpower his motive; instead, he inspired the workers and delivered results.
It is critical to remain focused on your purpose when under fire. Criticism is naturally a way to direct your focus elsewhere and attack your self-esteem. Look at the end game and block off negative voices. Do not let anything render you motionless or cause you to take a single step backwards; keep on the path of growth.
- Rely on God’s Strength
Nehemiah understood the importance of relying on God’s strength in the face of criticism. In response to threats and discouragement from his enemies, Nehemiah prayed, “Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads” (Nehemiah 4:4). He trusted that God would handle the critics and protect their work. When criticism comes your way, lean on God’s strength and seek His guidance. Prayer is a powerful tool that can provide comfort and direction. Trust that God sees your efforts and will support you through the challenges.
- Respond with Wisdom and Grace
Nehemiah’s response to criticism was marked by wisdom and grace. When Sanballat and Tobiah attempted to lure Nehemiah into a trap by inviting him to a meeting, Nehemiah wisely declined, saying, “I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you?” (Nehemiah 6:3). He recognized the ploy for what it was and refused to be distracted. Responding to criticism with wisdom and grace is essential. Evaluate the criticism carefully and consider its source. Sometimes, the best response is to ignore baseless criticism and continue with your work. Other times, a thoughtful and gracious reply is necessary. Either way, responding with wisdom ensures that you maintain your integrity and focus.
Conclusion
Criticism is an inevitable part of life, but it should not deter us from pursuing our goals and fulfilling our God-given purposes. The story of Nehemiah reminds us that we can overcome criticism by staying focused on our mission, relying on God’s strength, and responding with wisdom and grace. As Proverbs 19:11 states, “A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offence.” Embrace criticism as an opportunity to grow and demonstrate resilience, knowing that with God’s help, you can rise above it and achieve great things. With Jesus in the boat, you will laugh at the storm, so let Jesus Christ have His way in your life.
Let’s Pray
- Lord, I thank You for Your grace and substance that enable me to stand in times of criticism.
- Father, arise and defend me in the face of my adversaries.
- Lord, grant me strength and enablement to overcome challenges on my way to success.
John Aderogba for ROPMI