What can we learn from critics?

Not long ago I read this passage in my personal devotional time: Better to be criticized by a wise person than to be praised by a fool (Ecclesiastes 7:5, NLT).  I posted the verse on Facebook, along with this comment: We don't learn much by listening to our fans.  What if we asked God for wise critics?

Seems a little masochistic, doesn't it ... asking God for critics?  But, think about it.  How much have you ever learned from the people who always tell you how wonderful you are?  Our encourages are certainly valuable to us.  We probably spend waaaay too much time serving as the complaint dumping ground.

But, what if we started intentionally asking God what we could learn from those who criticize us?  What if we were able to put our defensiveness on hold and listen for the kernel of truth that may be found within the chaff of a complaint?  What might happen if we see the dissenting voice as valuable?

Certainly, we don't want to just accept and internalize every criticism (just as we don't want to get too puffed up by the kudos).  The key is to be teachable and open to a new perspective that just might show up from an unexpected source.  Are you willing to ask God for wise critics?

With an eye on the Harvest,
Gerry