CONSTRUCTIVE DESTRUCTION

There is that wonderful saying about constructive criticism. The idea that someone wants to tell you a way to improve that will be in your best interest.

Not sure you can actually use the word criticism and have anyone smile. And it seems most of the time what I've experience is never actually all that constructive in the first place.

Most of the time it is more a case of somebody having a prejudice that you have offended in some way. They want to tell you something that will help you conform to their point of view.

In doesn't actually impact in a good way at times in my opinion. It is sort of like when you have someone who makes the comment about agreeing to disagree. That idea being they don't feel you are in any way correct, but decide it is okay for you to believe whatever as long as you know you are wrong. Another gem of truth that goes unspoken, but is sensed just the same.

One can help accepting the said aspect of how often such hurtful ways stymie the process of spirituality. Negative energy doesn't need an invitation to visit the soul.

We know this, but our inner hates and frustrations just often come out in worship settings. And it is so often evident in the sad display of sermons that only focus on what you do that is wrong.

I think that was one thing that more than any other helped to inspire the Apostle Paul under the influence of the Holy Spirit to write about only speaking words that are encouraging. That will build up people and that is helpful.

And what is more important than to have words that heal and make one feel love? It touches in a way that gives a feeling of life.

Does this mean that criticism never should be expressed? For me, I think that the answer is that one has to trust to God. The Lord sees the heart and he knows the words that need to be spoken that will not do other than serve his purpose. That can include times of correction.

Only love must abide in the process. That can be so hard to keep in mind at times. God certainly can assist us in that regard.

But we have to be willing to listen and be guiding by his spirit. When we do then God will also prepare the person to hear what he wants said.

Being prepared to embrace this truth with love in your heart is the balance that is hard to truly accomplish. It takes a lot of prayer and faith to keep focused on the right purpose and not get side tracked by other issues.