Be Open To Criticism
When criticism is valid, we are to embrace it (Prov 25:12, LB). Refusal to do so is stupid (Prov 12:1). The source of the criticism should be unimportant if it is accurate. It may come from a friend but even if it is given by an enemy, it is worth evaluating (Eccl 7:5, Berkeley note). After all, every one of us makes a lot of mistakes (Jas 3:2). In fact, even the way the criticism was given, if done poorly, does not invalidate accurate criticism.
On the other hand, we must be careful to not accept plausibly sounding yet incorrect evaluations – i. e. invalid criticisms. David, for instance, did not agree with Michal’s condemnation of how he danced in worship of the Lord (2 Sam 6:20-22). He correctly realized her negativity reflected spiritual shallowness, that his motives were good, and that he hadn’t done anything biblically wrong. Likewise, Jesus rebuked the disciples for criticizing the woman who poured the expensive perfume on his head. He did not want them to try to lay on her unearned guilt. What she did might have been different from what the other disciples would have done but she had not disobeyed God.
Don’t receive or give criticism unless there is clear wrongdoing (Mt 18:15). Remember, if we are habitually faultfinding, that is how we will be treated (Lk 6:37).
If we love, we will do our duty and, thus, be successful in God’s view.