Have you ever gotten a nasty letter, email, text, or phone call? I believe most, if not all, of us have. We received one of those at work recently. We sat down to evaluate if we could have done anything better in the situation since we typically go above and beyond as we have in this case. We noted a few areas of improvement, but we also noted that some of the expectations in the letter were too high.
It hit home because a few sentences related to this individual’s thoughts about me. The individual said I was too laid-back and of no help. I was bothered by the remarks, but I began to realize that I cannot help everyone. I am limited as a human being. The devil wanted to upset me by one remark when God has used me to help a good number of people. I stopped to pray for this individual. I have been where this person is. I went to one counselor who was not very helpful while the next one was just what I needed. I did not fault the first counselor. God has used him to help others, but his background was not as beneficial to me.
The next time you receive some scathing remarks or criticism, be willing to improve where needed but also know that you will not be able to help everyone. Someone else will come along and potentially meet the need better. Criticism from others does not define you. Let that release you from unnecessary bondage!
Honest Thoughts from a Pastor 
Great post! In the 15 years as a Principal, I did receive some “scathing” comments (in various ways). Like you, I listen. To the truths I hear, I adjust. It’s been my experience that the frustration or anger displayed is typically over the situation~and not of the person directly. When I worked at the license bureau at age 19 I actually had someone lunge at me…..I guess it prepared me for the scathing situations. 🤦🏼♀️ God bless you and all you do!
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Thanks! We all receive something like this occasionally. I have been pushed into the front yard from the front door once. It was not personal, but I happened to arrive at the wrong time.
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Oh my! 🤦🏼♀️
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Reblogged this on Journey to Heaven.
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I’m sorry you experienced this. In my line of work, I represent a company and not the Lord, sadly, but it still hurts to have those things said about us when we’re truly trying to help. I think in any part of life, there are people who don’t get through to us and whom we can’t reach. That’s the beauty of being a unified community, because the next person may relate better and get the message across. I appreciate you sharing this and wholeheartedly agree.
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Wow, that’s a really admirable attitude, Matthew! This is one of those situations where it’s so tough to be gracious. Good on you for being able to do so. (Or maybe more like, good on God for enabling you to do that)
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Lily, it’s definitely ALL God! My initial reaction was not from Him, but I was able to process through it.
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