Criticism And Negativism

Our Thoughts:

Criticism and negativism can strike us at any time and at any age. I remember being in church one night and something was said about a particular song. I said, "I can't play that song". Then, as quickly as I had said it, I got chastised (smiles) by a little five year old. He promptly looked at me and said, "Can't is not in the dictionary. My Mom says I can do anything I want to do, if I try." That has stuck with me for years. That same little boy is now a high school graduate, who went on to become Valedictorian of his class.

I am sure all of us have been hit by criticism before - either about someone or someone criticizing us. Criticism is hurtful, if not applied correctly. And, the correct way to 'apply criticism' is to avoid it. Instead of criticizing, why not give a praise? Find something good to comment the person on. And, if the problem still exists, why not talk with them about the it, and perhaps give a suggestion rather than criticism?

Too often, adults will say things to children that could be worded differently, and would have a different affect on each child. We need to say positive things to children. If they won't do their chores, let them know the consequences of not minding. Don't tell them how lazy they are or that they will never amount to anything in their lives. Children need motivation, and it's not a learned behavior.

When speaking to others, we need to have a positive thought, rather than negative. If we can't speak good things, we need to keep our mouth shut. When we criticize, it also puts a bad light on ourselves.

His Thoughts

James 3:10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.

Our Cup:

Heavenly Father, it's easy to get over into criticism. Help us avoid being critical of others and their ways. Teach us to be positive rathern than negative. We give you praise! In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

All Scriptures are taken from the King James Version of the Holy Bible.