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Reflections and Poetry

Handling Unwarranted Criticism: Preparing for God’s Call

When we take a stand for Jesus, we will face opposition. Some will criticize us; much of the accusations will be unfair or untrue.

Although it is one of several hurdles we face when we seek to fulfill God’s Call, there is a good feature about criticism, even the unwarranted variety.

If we are slandered, it can be heart-breaking. But if our character is held in question without justification, the good aspect to it is that we learn to sift and to use attack as a touchstone. Whatever the criticism, we can lean against the accusation and check ourselves to ENSURE it is invalid. We can look at our relationship with the Lord and praise Him, thankful that the attack is invalid. (Or where there is validity, we can repent and be set free from it.) As we delve into our conscience and recognize the accusation is untrue, we become stronger and more confident in who we are.

The voice of unwarranted criticism tries to tell us we are supposed to be perfect and points to a crack in our character.

Well, there are cracks in our character so long as we are on this journey of life. We are not perfect, but nor is the attacker giving his uninvited critique. And thanks to our surrendered life, we are seeking to be perfected and can be hugely thankful for that process, against which no attack has ammunition.

“No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness is from Me,” Says the Lord.” (Isaiah 54:17)

Knowing who we are in Christ and who God is shaping us to be, does not set us above error nor correction. But it does shore up defense against unfair attack upon our motives or behaviour, and enables us to rise above the judgment. We can face opposition, even nasty criticism, knowing God is the perfecter of our faith, personality and character.

“Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1)

By Dr Sarah Tun

Dr Sarah Tun began her professional career as a teacher. Years later she became a performing artist and administrator to property development. She felt the Call to write full time in 2004. Dr Sarah has traveled extensively, and lived in New York City (for a year), London England (for a long time) and Hong Kong (briefly) before returning to her home in Ontario, Canada, then to Spain and finally now, has re-settled in her adoptive home of England. She graduated with degrees in Drama, Education and diplomas in Acting and Theology. Most recently she was awarded Honorary Doctor of Ministry and became ordained. Her favourite experience to date has been following her Creator and Lord. She doesn't think Life can get any better! Dr Sarah Tun is author, singer, preacher, writing coach and all-round enthusiast, celebrating and seeking to inspire all of us to quench our thirst for deeper intimacy with God through the Holy Spirit.

2 replies on “Handling Unwarranted Criticism: Preparing for God’s Call”

Good points all. If He was accused falsely and unjustly criticized, can we expect any less? John 15:20-21.

Indeed. It is difficult sometimes, when we are suffering, to remember that we’ve asked to be pruned. It is difficult too, when we are attacked, not to fight back. The art of knowing when to fight and when to surrender is developed as we walk with Christ. Thanks for your sharing, Virgil, it truly sparks a great deal to think about. God bless, Brother.

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