Criticism is something we all face. Some people mean well with their words while others mean to hurt us as much as they can. How we react is determined by how close we are walking with Jesus. Our normal, initial, prideful reactions to criticism usually come right from the flesh, and can cost us relationships, destroy our self-esteem, and give our enemies power over us.

As Christians, though, we have another way to respond. Having been broken and humbled before God, our pride should no longer be the thing that determines our reactions to criticism. Instead, the Holy Spirit wants to take the criticism of others and use it to bring growth to our souls and light to others.