12/02/2024
Reflection for the Day
The Problem with Critics
Nehemiah 4:1-6
Critics talk much and do little that is constructive. They are more interested in trying to make themselves look good by making others look bad.
If Nehemiah had listened to his critics, the wall around the city of Jerusalem would never have been rebuilt. Some of what those critics said to him was accurate. The wall was rubble and fire had burned the stones and caused them to crack and crumble (4:2-3). But the critics talked much and did absolutely nothing to help.
Years ago, Theodore Roosevelt noted, “It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred with dust and sweat and blood; and who, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”
Where do you see yourself in this picture? Are you being pelted by unfair criticism as you are serving Christ? If so, keep on going and God will reward your efforts. Or do you recognize yourself as one who tends to be critical of others? If so, it’s time to quit the job of the demolition team and join the construction crew.
Prayer:
O Lord, I pray not to criticize the one who works, the one who listens to your word and deeds; But rather criticize myself, dear Lord, and confess to you my faithless words and deeds. Amen.
