A heaping spoonful–or two–of Hagen Daz helps.
Criticism kicks you in the pride, doesn’t it? Whether constructive, or just plain mean, it makes you question everything. I don’t know about you, but pride and I go way back. We went to school together in “Me-sville.” When I travel down memory lane, I flinch at all the beatings my heart got because my old buddy pride got me into trouble. Now it’s happened again.
Criticism has shown its face in my life in the form of an editor. A wonderful little woman carrying a red pen. AHHHHHHH! Lol! Run! Run!
Oh, trust me I look back and see all the little edits I should’ve caught on these blogs and think, “Oh these sweet people! They liked the post, even thought they were trying to make sense of my garble!”
All I can say is thank you! My heart is heaping with love for all of you….lol, and Hagen Daz.
An old friend of mine used to tell me, “Terri if your pride were really frogs; swallow the big one first!”
Some criticism is useful. Another one I’ve heard is, “Honestly look at criticism. If you can learn from it, learn. Then move on.” The hardest thing about growing up is learning that very few people actually care if they hurt your feelings or your self-esteem. That’s why it’s so important to surround yourself with good friends. But beware! There is a huge difference between a loyal and supportive friend, and a “miserable comforter.”
Job 16:2; I have heard many such things: miserable comforters [are] ye all.
When you tell a miserable comforter about the criticism you received they will, in a sincere and kind way, agree with the criticism no matter how harsh. In a nice way they are saying; they thought that way all along about you and now they are getting an opportunity to tell you about it. (They jump on the chance to kick you when you’re down.) These are dangerous friends to have and they can wind up being your closest family members and friends. Watch out for them. Their comfort is a sly trick to disarm and disable you. Some people are masters at it. (Wolves in sheep’s clothing)
On the other hand a loyal friend will support your efforts and your heart. They will bring you back to the reason you started on this path. They remind you of the people you’ve helped. They pray with you to overcome, and they believe in your ability to take a hit and just keep trucking. Any skill or endeavor we do takes time and effort. Mastery takes years, if not decades. A good friend will remind you of that and tell you to keep going.
The huge difference between these two people are the results. A miserable comforter will put you further down into depression. A good friend and like-minded believer will lift you up. A good friend will brush you off and push you forward on the path then join you there.
Paul was a good friend to the Thessalonians look at this verse;
1 Thessalonians 3: 9-10; For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God. Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?
He’s asking; what else can I pray for, I’m already praying night and day for your lives. But is there anything else? Because if you need it, I’ll be on it.
God and his Word are a great place to go. Did you know God says, “Be strong”, 72 times in the Bible. Here’s an example;
Deuteronomy 31:6; Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he [it is] that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
When you face criticism, don’t face it alone. Find a friend who is supportive of your goals and your dreams. Find someone who will help you fight through the doubt and fear then help you overcome it.
God bless you today!
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Simply beautiful. I feel you are always looking in on my life and know just what I need to hear or read and at the right time. Thank you, Terri! I love you friend!
Thank you Crystal. You are not alone! Bill and I love you and know that God is working mightly within you. (Phil. 2:13) Keep going to him and praying! We are here for you always! Take care and God Bless you dear one!
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I really needed to hear this. Yes, miserable comforters. I have just given it all to Jesus because man has their ups and downs. Having a good friend is very helpful. My husband is my best friend. God blessed me with Him and together we take our issues to God.
Your blog is such an inspiration! Continue on the path of truth.
Shenine
I’m so blessed you commented Shenine, what a wonderful friend you must be to others! My husband is shores up my confidence with pure love and edification so I totally understand that feeling of yours. We are lucky you and I. Lucky women indeed. Take care and God bless you both in your endeavors!
I am reblogging this. I have also added you to my blogroll. Such creativity and inspiration to truth.
Shenine
Reblogged this on Christian Comfort & Conversation Cafe.