I have been facilitating a Bible study on Sunday evenings since the beginning of September. It is a study presented via DVDs by James MacDonald based on his book, “Lord, Change my Attitude.”
I read that book a couple years ago, and was so dramatically changed by it that I begged our pastor to purchase the materials. It took over a year of talking it up to finally have people attend, but it has become such a blessing!
The study focuses on different attitudes that God truly hates. They include complaining, covetousness, criticism, doubt and rebelliousness. Each of these is to be replaced with positive attitudes that God loves: thankfulness, contentment, love, faith and submission.
When I read the book, I was truly convicted powerfully, and made major changes as a result. Amazingly, I was again convicted last night! It was the same chapter as last time: criticism. Even though I have already learned that God hates when I am critical, I had to learn it again.
I feel lighter today. I have uncovered a barrier that I had not noticed for so long, and now I can better hear God’s message for me! If you have not read this book, I strongly recommend it. Or, better yet, come do the Bible study! (We are half-way through, but I promise I will offer it again!)
I want to share some thoughts and some quotes from last night’s study. I am going to focus all week on losing my critical attitude. This is going to take work and focus, but I know it is right.
First, what is criticism? Here is James’ definition: “Criticism is dwelling upon the perceived faults of another with no view to their good.” In God’s eyes, criticism is a sin.
Six important points about criticism:
- Criticism is WRONG
- Criticism is PETTY
- Criticism is SELF EXALTING
- Criticism is PAINFUL
- Criticism is OFTEN INADVERTANT
- Criticism PLUGS THE FLOW OF GOD’S BLESSING
When we criticize, it is often due to three main reasons. We have unforgiveness in our hearts. We have envy or are jealous of the person. We have our own personal failure that we are trying to mask.
Think about all of this. Are you overly critical? If so, it is time to let go of criticism and embrace that person as another child of God. He does not appreciate when I tear down someone he has worked so hard to build up, even when they are still a ‘work in progress.’
Finally, two quotes that James shared last night that I would like to share.
***Every time I throw dirt, I lose ground.”
***Proverbs 3:7 Do not be wise in your own eyes.
Happy, Positive and Blessed Monday everyone. I am seeking to let go of my critical attitude (for good this time!). What is your goal for yourself?
