Agreeable and Not Critical

Just for today I will be agreeable.  I will not criticize, not find fault, and not try to improve or control anybody except myself.  I will pray blessing on one person with whom I struggle to relate.

It is so easy to find fault with what others are doing and to criticize them.  The truth is, it doesn't help to focus on anyone’s flaws and failures, and it distracts from the time and energy we give to God's transforming work in our own lives. 

While we may think that we are controlling and changing other people by criticizing them, it rarely has that effect.  God has a better option for us today.

Say only what will help to build others up and meet their needs. Then what you say will help those who listen. Ephesians 4:29 

Today we are on a journey of recovering the life God created us to live.  We each have different challenges and character flaws, but God is working in all of us.  In the same way others accept us in our change process, it's important for us to accept others in theirs. 

When someone is struggling, instead of criticizing them, we should take the opportunity to pray for them and support their healing and growth. We may not immediately see any change in the person but at least we know we are part of the solution rather than part of the problem. 

Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not want what belongs to others. It does not brag. It is not proud. It does not dishonor other people. It does not look out for its own interests. It does not easily become angry. It does not keep track of other people’s wrongs. Love is not happy with evil. But it is full of joy when the truth is spoken. It always protects. It always trusts. It always hopes. It never gives up. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 

Loving God, it is easy for us to find fault and criticize others. Forgive us for thinking we’re any less flawed than anyone else.  Thank You for Your grace that is available to transform our thinking and deal with our character defects.  Help us to choose to love and bless others rather than to criticize and tear them down. Amen

Just for today I will be agreeable.  I will not criticize, not find fault, and not try to improve or control anybody except myself.  I will pray blessing on one person with whom I struggle to relate.