Six Practices to Help Overcome a Judgmental & Critical Spirit

Criticism is part of life. As a leader, it comes with the territory. We may be the target of criticism and condemnation, but the fact is, we're all guilty of being judgmental...well, at least I am. It's a well-known fact that Christians are perceived to be some of the most critical, judgmental people in the world.

In Matthew 7:1-5, Jesus teaches a lesson on criticism. The beliefs of the Scribes and Pharisees had set the pace for the "religious" and it's against the backdrop of their practices that Jesus says, "Judge not that you be not judged."

Jesus’ desire for us as his followers is that we will love others...even those who are our greatest critics.

Six Practices to Help you overcome a critical and judgmental spirit:

1. Study God’s Word:
Scripture is the key to changing hearts and attitudes toward other people

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2Ti 3:16-1 NKJ)

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb 4:12 NKJ)

2. Serve and minister to others:

I believe when we judge and criticize others it’s because we are desperately trying to justify our own flaws and insecurities. Get outside yourself! Jesus modeled it.

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. (Phi 2:4 ESV)

3. Build relationships
Get to know people. Ask questions. Listen to their stories.
Strong, healthy relationships don’t just happen. Intentionality and transparency are the secrets to meaningful relationships.

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. (Eccl. 4:9)

4. Pray
Ask God to change your heart, attitude and reactions toward other people.

The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (Jam 5:16 NKJ)

5. Model love, care & encouragement for your children
If your kids are like mine, they will hold you to a high level of accountability. Remember, more is caught than taught. Kids are products of their environment. If you want to raise kids who are loving, caring and encouraging, model it!

…bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (Eph 6:4 KJV)

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (Pro 22:6 KJV)

6. Look for the good in others
We look for the good in others, because we want others to see the good in us.

Do to others as you would like them to do to you. (Luk 6:31 NLT)

Here’s the key: Desire a heart like HIS!
What else matters…..really?