The Bible for Women

Weekly Devotional

Before I Criticize

The following article was written by Larry Fluitt. The word "brother" has been changed to "sister" to help us identify with the writer. At some point, each of us has been the subject of criticism and each of us has probably been guilty of criticizing. This article is a gentle reminder of the danger of being critical.

Before I engage in the arrogant practice of fault-finding, I must first do the following:

Pause and be sure my heart is right. Do I really want to help or hinder? Which will I be doing? Matthew 7:12

Examine my own life to see that everything is in order. Would I be honest in condemning another while I need correction? Matthew 7:3-5

Try to put myself in her place. How would I be doing if I were bearing her load? Romans 15:1-2

Remember God's mercy toward me! How often have I asked for the mercy of God? Should I not extend it to her?

Matthew 18:21-35

Consider the benevolence of others. My sisters have often borne with me in failure. Can I not now bear with her? Galatians 6:1

Remember how I was hurt when last criticized! How can I delight in inflicting that pain on another? Matthew 5:44-48

Pray for my sister and myself. I need to pray for her that she might overcome, and for myself that I might be forgiven for even considering sinning against her. Acts 8:22

Go to my sister in humility and love. There I can confess my shortcomings and help her see the need for repentance in her life. James 5:16

If I will do these things, I will not only help another to be saved. I will avert destruction of my own soul.

May God bless your week. Margie