A gentle answer quiets anger, but a harsh one stirs it up. When wise people speak, they make knowledge attractive, but stupid people spout nonsense. The LORD sees what happens everywhere; he is watching us, whether we do good or evil. Kind words bring life, but cruel words crush your spirit. If is foolish to ignore what your father taught you; it is wise to accept his correction. Righteous men keep their wealth, but wicked men lose theirs when hard times come. Knowledge is spread by people who are wise, not by fools. The LORD is pleased when good men pray, but hates the sacrifices that wicked men bring him. The LORD hates the ways of evil people, but loves those who do what is right. If you do what is wrong, you will be severely punished; you will die if you do not let yourself be corrected. Not even the world of the dead can keep the LORD from knowing what is there; how then can a man hide his thoughts from God? Conceited people do not like to be corrected; they never ask for advice from those who are wiser. When people are happy, they smile, but when they are sad, they look depressed. Intelligent people want to learn, but stupid people are satisfied with ignorance. The life of the poor is a constant struggle, but happy people always enjoy life.

Proverbs 15:1-15

When someone criticizes you, do not respond in anger. It will only accelerate the tension between you. When you are criticized, you may have been presented with a golden opportunity to model Christian behavior. It is always possible that the criticism is coming from God, via another person. Listen, you may need to change. A wise person welcomes advice. Treat a critic as a friend, and you both win.

Criticism is a good teacher, if we are willing to learn from it.

Our Daily Bread – January 22, 2003