Friendship Baptist Church Kansas City, Missouri
It's Easy To Criticize
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When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became angry and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews, and in the presence of his associates and the army of Samaria, he said, "What are those feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble--burned as they are?" Tobiah the Ammonite, who was at his side, said, "What they are building--if even a fox climbed up on it, he would break down their wall of stones!"

- Nehemiah 4:1-3

 

Meditation

Most noble and great achievements are not  accomplished without criticism and opposition. This should be our encouragement as Christians as we attempt to participate with God in the building of His kingdom. We will encounter discouraging words, divisive actions and make our own share of mistakes as we do God's work in the world, but we should not give up.

 

We should also consider our action and attitude towards others who are also kingdom builders. We are often wounded by "friendly" fire. Nehemiah's heart is with God and His people, so in the text he provides leadership in the rebuilding of the walls around Jerusalem which would be essential for its protection. It's a noble cause, but not without critics.  

 

The critics in the text  question Nehemiah's motives and methods. They go as far as suggesting that whatever he is doing, it will not last. Are you a critic or an encourager? Most criticism is not constructive. It is often petty, mean spirited and destructive. Avoid it at all cost. Seek to shine the light of God's love on others, be merciful and gracious to others. Do your part humbly and help others who have erred.

 

In the end , Nehemiah completed the wall to God's glory! You too should keep doing your part to God's glory and not become distracted or discouraged by the voice of critics.

 

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, Make me a vessel of blessing and encouragement to others. Use me to build and strengthen the people of faith. Lead me not into the temptation of negative criticism of others, help me to see my own faults so as to overcome them. I love you Lord and I am nothing without you. In Jesus name, Amen.


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