We are all critics and have also been criticized. If we’re not careful, both can turn into toxic traps! Pastor Kyle unpacks several powerful ways to overcome debilitating criticism and stop being so critical.
Notes 📓✏️:
In this series, our prayer is that you would consistently find real freedom by not taking the bait of Toxic Traps.
Today’s Toxic Trap to discuss: Criticism
Criticism is the expression of an unmet need
Proverbs 4:23 (NIV): Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
“I didn’t mean that…”
“I can’t believe I just said that…”
“Look what you made me do…”
Our words carry the weight of whatever we’ve let in our hearts.
Romans 12:18: If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Keep the right voices at the right volume.
Proverbs 27:6: Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.
Constructive feedback builds us up, but harmful criticism only tears us down.
Compliments won’t go to my head, and criticism won’t get into my heart.
Are you fighting to be right, or are you fighting for the relationship?
1 Thessalonians 5:11: So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.
People respond better to encouragement than they do criticism.
Colossians 4:5: Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.
Luke 23:39-43 (NLT): ”One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!” But the other criminal protested, “Don’t you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die? We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Discussion Questions 📝❓:
- What does it mean to guard your heart, as mentioned in Proverbs 4:23, and why is this important in avoiding criticism?
- Pastor Kyle mentioned that criticism often reflects our own unmet needs. Why do you think it’s easy to become critical of others when we feel let down ourselves?
- In the sermon, it was mentioned that Jesus responded to those seeking mercy instead of critics. How can we apply this approach in our own lives when we face criticism?
- What are some practical ways we can encourage others to counteract criticism?