If You Only Knew......

How do you handle personal criticism? Learn from Luther....he was a master theologian, public figure, and normal Christian like you and me.

It is well-known that in his writings [and] in table conversation Luther would often refer to visits from the Devil, how the Devil would come to him and whisper in his ear, accusing him of all manner of filthy sin: “Martin, you are a liar, greedy, lecherous, a blasphemer, a hypocrite. You cannot stand before God.” To which Luther would respond: “Well, yes, I am. And, indeed, Satan, you do not know the half of it. I have done much worse than that and if you care to give me your full list, I can no doubt add to it and help make it more complete. But you know what? My Saviour has died for all my sins—those you mention, those I could add and, indeed, those I have committed but am so wicked that I am unaware of having done so. It does not change the fact that Christ has died for all of them; his blood is sufficient; and on the Day of Judgment I shall be exonerated because he has taken all my sins on himself and clothed me in his own perfect righteousness.”

Just a few thoughts to chew on - it is so easy to respond pridefully when you're the target of the criticism. Sometimes you want to fight back or ignore what the person said altogether. Rather, pause and consider the source, if it's from a good friend you might want to listen and take counsel. But if the accusations are coming from someone who is generally negative and consistently has a critical spirit then CONSIDER THE SOURCE! Take the good and throw the rest in the trashcan!

Learn from Luther....next time criticism knocks on your front door, first agree with them and then say, "if you only knew......!"

Our sin runs deep but God's grace runs deeper! John Newton who wrote the hymn Amazing Grace once said, "I am a great sinner, but Christ is a great Savior!"

Real Life Topics

In this weekly blog, I will address real life topics that are common to us all - marriage, parenting, Christian living, pastoral ministry and whatever else pops in my head from time to time. There are times when I hear a great story or read an amazing quote and I just want to share it with others! I hope some of what I share you will pass along to family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. This blog will NOT be a personal diary but will be used as a platform to share thoughts on life's many experiences and to offer motivation and inspiration in many different ways to encourage us all on this journey of faith!