Rise Above Your Critics with Progress
Rise Above Your Critics with Progress
Devotion by Pastor Alexander Redd
December 31, 2023
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." - Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)
It can be quite painful when individuals criticize or gossip about your past mistakes instead of acknowledging the progress you are making through faith in Jesus Christ. They might even attempt to hinder your influence and cast doubt on your ability to fulfill your calling as a gospel minister.
Recently, Bishop Darlingston G. Johnson, the Prelate of Harvest Intercontinental Ministries, cautioned emerging leaders of the faith not to validate any gossip about their church leaders, especially when there isn't substance or witnesses to authenticate such claims.
However, when facing such situations, it is important to remember that the Lord calls us to respond to criticism with grace, humility, and a steadfast focus on God's redemptive work in our lives. The Bible tells us stories of flawed individuals God chose to use for His glory. For instance, Paul used to hurt Christians, but Christ Jesus transformed him and made him an influential person in the early church.
Under the Spirit's inspiration, Paul writes, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." - Ephesians 4:29 (ESV). Moreover, the apostles, including James, cautioned believers against unwarranted criticism: "Do not criticize one another, my friends. If you criticize or judge another Christian, you criticize and judge the Law" (James 4:11).
When you face criticism and gossip, remember that your past mistakes do not define you. The redeeming work of Christ Jesus in your life is what defines you. In Christ, you are renewed and become an ambassador to share the good news and live to reflect Christ's character. The power of the gospel is not limited by your shortcomings but is magnified through your transformation and growth. Your progress and success as a minister of the gospel are not measured by the opinions of others but by your obedience to God's calling.
Recognize that those who criticize and gossip about you may struggle with their insecurities and doubts. Respond to the critics with compassion and wisdom, not anger or defensiveness. By extending grace and forgiveness, you become a living testimony of God's love and redemption.
In moments of doubt and discouragement, turn to God's Word for strength and encouragement. Psalm 139:14 says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by our Creator, who knows us intimately and has a purpose for our lives. Romans 8:1 assures us no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. By accepting your identity as a redeemed child of God, you can confidently pursue your calling, knowing that God's grace is sufficient to overcome any criticism or gossip that may come your way.
As believers, our goal is to share the gospel of Christ and bring hope, healing, and salvation to a broken world. Our lives should testify to God's transforming power and inspire others to believe in the limitless possibilities of redemption and progress (Matthew 5:16). By doing so, we can silence the critics and gossipers with the undeniable evidence of God's grace at work (1 Peter 2:12).
My friend, you are a trophy of God's grace! So, be encouraged to press on in your calling, believing in God's redemption and progress in your life and silencing the critics with the power of His grace.
Our loving Lord, thank You for redeeming us and transforming our lives through the power of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to respond to criticism and gossip with grace and humility, knowing that our identity is secure in You. Grant us the strength and wisdom to continue progressing in our calling as gospel ministers despite the obstacles and doubts that may arise. May our lives be evidence of Your grace and love, and may we inspire others to join the path of redemption and progress. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen!
Devotion by Pastor Alexander Redd
December 31, 2023
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." - Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)
It can be quite painful when individuals criticize or gossip about your past mistakes instead of acknowledging the progress you are making through faith in Jesus Christ. They might even attempt to hinder your influence and cast doubt on your ability to fulfill your calling as a gospel minister.
Recently, Bishop Darlingston G. Johnson, the Prelate of Harvest Intercontinental Ministries, cautioned emerging leaders of the faith not to validate any gossip about their church leaders, especially when there isn't substance or witnesses to authenticate such claims.
However, when facing such situations, it is important to remember that the Lord calls us to respond to criticism with grace, humility, and a steadfast focus on God's redemptive work in our lives. The Bible tells us stories of flawed individuals God chose to use for His glory. For instance, Paul used to hurt Christians, but Christ Jesus transformed him and made him an influential person in the early church.
Under the Spirit's inspiration, Paul writes, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." - Ephesians 4:29 (ESV). Moreover, the apostles, including James, cautioned believers against unwarranted criticism: "Do not criticize one another, my friends. If you criticize or judge another Christian, you criticize and judge the Law" (James 4:11).
When you face criticism and gossip, remember that your past mistakes do not define you. The redeeming work of Christ Jesus in your life is what defines you. In Christ, you are renewed and become an ambassador to share the good news and live to reflect Christ's character. The power of the gospel is not limited by your shortcomings but is magnified through your transformation and growth. Your progress and success as a minister of the gospel are not measured by the opinions of others but by your obedience to God's calling.
Recognize that those who criticize and gossip about you may struggle with their insecurities and doubts. Respond to the critics with compassion and wisdom, not anger or defensiveness. By extending grace and forgiveness, you become a living testimony of God's love and redemption.
In moments of doubt and discouragement, turn to God's Word for strength and encouragement. Psalm 139:14 says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by our Creator, who knows us intimately and has a purpose for our lives. Romans 8:1 assures us no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. By accepting your identity as a redeemed child of God, you can confidently pursue your calling, knowing that God's grace is sufficient to overcome any criticism or gossip that may come your way.
As believers, our goal is to share the gospel of Christ and bring hope, healing, and salvation to a broken world. Our lives should testify to God's transforming power and inspire others to believe in the limitless possibilities of redemption and progress (Matthew 5:16). By doing so, we can silence the critics and gossipers with the undeniable evidence of God's grace at work (1 Peter 2:12).
My friend, you are a trophy of God's grace! So, be encouraged to press on in your calling, believing in God's redemption and progress in your life and silencing the critics with the power of His grace.
Our loving Lord, thank You for redeeming us and transforming our lives through the power of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to respond to criticism and gossip with grace and humility, knowing that our identity is secure in You. Grant us the strength and wisdom to continue progressing in our calling as gospel ministers despite the obstacles and doubts that may arise. May our lives be evidence of Your grace and love, and may we inspire others to join the path of redemption and progress. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen!
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