If one serves in ministry for very long, they will experience criticism. Some comes from the best of motives and some comes just from ugliness.
It takes a strong backbone to withstand criticism and continue to do what you believe is right in the face of harsh rhetoric. I have served in a couple of Christian leadership roles in where I, others, received criticism.....and sometimes related to stories that were inaccurate. It takes continuing resolve to plow on, do what you think is right, and not just throw up your hands and walk away.
But, here can be the problem or the blind spot. It can be easy to not listen to any suggestions, helpful advice, or good feedback. Our being resolute can turn into harmful rejection of any other view or idea. I have seen it happen in others, which suggests to me that maybe, maybe I have been that way sometimes.
Two Suggestions when dealing with Criticism:
First, make a real and concerted effort to sort out that which is just criticism and that which is good and helpful feedback. Everybody that disagrees with you about something is likely not against you. And, there is usually more than one way to see things and even to do things right or best.
Second, one way to sort out helpful feedback from just angry criticism is to "consider the source". If someone is always negative, that is an identifier. But, when someone has demonstrated their positive concern for the situation and for you, then likely their "criticism" is something that at least needs to be heard and not ignored.
There is a difference between criticism and a different view of the situation or possible alternatives. We must do our best to sort it out. Beware the fine line between being resolute during times of criticism and being stubborn or bullheaded to your own detriment!
Arliss Dickerson's book, Almost Everything About College Ministry, is available at amazon.com/dp/B08CMD9CXX.
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