“Spiritual paralysis helps no one. When we leave the results to God, as David did, we can replace our heartache with hope. So if some Shimei is kicking you while you’re down, find comfort as you stand in David’s shadow.”- Charles Swindoll
“Come ye disconsolate, where’re ye languish; / Come to the mercy seat, fervently kneel. / Here bring your wounded hearts; here tell your anguish. / Earth has no sorrow that heav’n cannot heal.”- Thomas Moore (1831)
Charles Swindoll concludes Chapter 5 of What If . . . God Has Other Plans? as he shares some astute comments on criticism. The comments first appeared in David Roper’s book A Burden Shared. Criticism:
- always comes when we least need it
- seems to come when we least deserve it
- comes from people least qualified to give it
- frequently comes in a form that’s least helpful to us
Consequently, Pastor Swindoll observes, either you allow spiritual paralysis to set in, or you let unfair criticism fuel your journey. Therefore, the author offers four practical suggestions on how to respond to unfair criticism.
1. Ask God to give you a tougher hide. If you hike in an area with thorns, wearing flip-flops is futile. Yet, even it you wear your thickest boots, some thorns still pierce the sole. thus, when dealing with thorny people – especially in the ministry world – you need a tougher hide. Hence, commit to reading and meditating on God’s Word. Because doing so not only deepens your faith, but toughens your hide!
2. Remember that God is fully aware and engaged, even when He seems silent. It’s easy to forget this truth when you’re under attack. As a result, affirm the truth that the Lord’s present in the middle of your ordeal. Cultivate an awareness of His presence.
3. Rely on God’s grace to make things right. Perhaps, as David surmised, the Lord will look at what’s happening to you and bring full relief. Pastor Swindoll calls that ‘grace-thinking.’ So, when you deal with Shimei-type people, rely on God’s grace.
4. Find comfort by resting in God’s mercy. In conclusion, Pastor Swindoll offers these words of comfort: “Mercy is God’s ministry to the miserable. Sit down, lean back, and rest in His mercy.”
Today’s question: What Scriptures help you counter spiritual paralysis? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The need for second chances in life”
