“The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you” Psalm 32:8

Criticism from others may cause wear and tear on your mental well being. Knowing how to manage this criticism can provide you the grace you will need while under fire.

Here are some of the tools that God’s Word has provided in regards to giving and receiving criticism that will enable you to increase your mental well being and guide you on the path to living well:

• Example: Numbers 12:1 ~ People often argue over minor disagreements, leaving the real issue untouched. When  you are in a disagreement, stop and ask yourself if you are arguing over the real issue or if you have introduced a smoke screen by attacking someone’s character. If you are unjustly criticized, remember that your critics may be afraid to face the real problem. Don’t take this type of criticism personally. Ask God to help you identify the real issue and deal with it.
• Example: 1 Samuel:8 ~ Although we cannot keep others from unjustly criticizing us, we can choose how we will react to their hurtful words. Rather than dwelling upon our problems, we can enjoy the loving relationships God has give us. By so doing, we can exchange self-pity for hope.
• Example: 1 Samuel 17: 28-32 ~ People may try to discourage you with negative comments or mockery, but continue to do what you know is right. By doing what is right, you will be pleasing God, whose opinion matters most.
• Example: 2 Samuel 12:5, 6 ~ The qualities we condemn in others are often our own character flaws. Which friends, associates, or family members do you find easy to criticize and hard to accept? Instead of trying to change them, ask God to help you understand their feelings and see your own flaws more clearly. You may discover that in condemning others, you have been condemning yourself.
• Example: 2 Samuel 16: 5-14 ~ Maintaining your composure in the face of unjustified criticism can be a trying experience and an emotional drain, but if you can’t stop criticism, it is best just to ignore it. Remember that God knows what you are enduring, and he will vindicate you if you are in the right.
• Example: Psalm 141:5 ~ Nobody really likes criticism, but everybody can benefit from it when it is given wisely and taken humbly. David suggested how to accept criticism: (1) don’t refuse it, (2) consider it a kindness, and (3) keep quiet (don’t fight back). Putting these suggestions into practice will help you control how you react to criticism, making it productive rather than destructive, no matter how it was originally intended.

Excerpts taken from the Life Application Study Bible

May is National Mental Health Month. What are you doing to live well?