61-A-Step-Of-Faith-Criticism-Pt-3

In this Bible study, Greg Alabi discusses the topic of criticism. He emphasizes that we should not dismiss critics or treat them as enemies, but rather learn from their messages. Negative critics may try to control conversations and push us back, but we should not let them discourage us. David's response to criticism teaches us to move on when it becomes toxic and destructive. When speaking to authorities, we should share our vision and emphasize how it benefits everyone. Critics may remind us of our limitations, but we can remind them of our past successes. We should not always follow others' methods, but stay true to our own vision. When critics care about us, we should receive and respect them, but protect our own vision when necessary. Hello. You are welcome to join this chariot for a 5-minute Bible study. This episode 61 on the Step of Faith is titled Criticism Part 3. My name is Greg Alabi and I am inviting you to come let us study the Bible together. Criticisms and the critics themselves we learned from the previous episodes not to dismiss their messages nor should we treat them as enemies. The problem sometimes is their approach. We also learned that if critics or negative criticisms become destructive then we have a personal responsibility to protect ourselves and our visions. Now let's take a closer look at 1 Samuel 17 verse 28 so we can learn some valuable lessons on how to recognize negative criticisms from what the elder brother of David said to him and about him. First lesson here, he heard David speaking with others about the reward for whoever defeats Goliath. The lesson, negative critics don't like you, they don't like you talking to other people, they feel very uncomfortable when you talk to others, they will want to know the content of your conversation so that they can control the discussion or use it against you. Second lesson, he queried David and asked him, why did you come to the battlefield? The message translation says, what are you doing here? Why aren't you minding your own business? The lesson, negative critics will question your desire to come out and want to push you back to the background. Third lesson here, he asked David, with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? The lesson, negative critics would rather have you remain small, they have no plans to allow you to take bigger opportunities or come to limelight. Don't step out, rather step back, that's what they want. Fourth lesson, he accused David of being arrogant and claimed David only came to watch what was going on on the battlefield. The lesson, negative critics are quick to accuse you of being proud, have you noticed that? They claim to know what you are up to. Now, watch how David responded to negative criticisms. Verse 30, he turned away from his elder brother and went to someone else. The lesson, when criticisms become toxic and destructive, it is time to move on. Always remember you have a purpose and a destiny to fulfill. Now let us learn some more valuable lessons from how David handled criticisms from authorities. 1 Samuel 17 verse 31 to 32 is our first lesson. When David was brought before the king, he told the king he will go and fight against Goliath and nobody should be afraid anymore. The lesson, when you get a chance to speak with anybody in authority, it is your golden opportunity to share your vision, tell them what they stand to gain, emphasize what themselves and other people, everyone else will benefit from your plan, let them know it's not about you what you will gain. Can I tell you something? Your reward is not a prerequisite to perform but a by-product of your success. Second lesson, verse 33, the king discouraged David from fighting against Goliath because of the huge difference in their age and experience in battle. The lesson, sometimes your critics will remind you of your limitations and tell you you are not fit to take that giant ambition. How do you plan to sustain it? They will wonder. Third lesson is in verse 34 to 37, David told the king about his previous exploits and his success story. The lesson, your resume, your CV, if need be, when people are in doubt of your ability to face challenges ahead, remind them of your previous success and let them know that God who helped you so far can help you in future. Fourth lesson, verse 38 to 39, the king gave David his personal armor and weapons. David could not use them but dropped them off. The lesson, sometimes critics will care, those who care about you, they will want you to use their own approach, their own tools, their own methods for your own plans and purpose and your destiny. It may not always work their way. They should learn from their experience but not necessarily use their own chosen methods. My advice, when you find good critics who care about you, that you do not perish, please receive them, respect them, welcome them, embrace them but when they become overbearing, wanting you to do things their own way and their way alone, respectfully protect your vision and follow your master plan given to you by the Lord, still under their watch. Father, thank you for what you are teaching us today, not to be rebellious but to be faithful to the vision given to us, still under authority, in Jesus' name, Amen. I want to invite you to please visit our website gregalabee.com. You will find the podcasts, look for the previous messages and current messages, listen to them. God bless you.