Showing Compassion to Those Who Are Critical
No one likes someone who constantly criticizes others, especially when we know we’re one of their targets. The Bible says, “The north wind brings forth rain, and a backbiting tongue, angry looks.” (Prov. 25:23) Many times overly critical people are very insecure. For that reason they’re always seeking to build themselves up. One way they do this is by tearing others down. In reality, they end up tearing themselves down as well, because no one wants to be their friend. No wonder the Bible says that an undisciplined tongue ”is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body.” (James 3:6) Being judgmental and constantly criticizing others is also wrong in the eyes of God. Setting ourselves above others is an act of pride, and pride is a sin. A judgmental attitude also blinds us to our own faults. Have you ever noticed that judgmental people almost never criticize themselves? So what can we do? First, we must make sure that we don’t fall into the same habit. If we can’t say something good about someone, we must leave it unsaid. Then we can ask God to give us an opportunity to challenge the person. Gently, but firmly, we can let them know that we don’t want gossip to be part of our lives, and we hope they’ll do the same. Most of all, we can pray that the person will open their heart and life to Christ and His life-changing love.
