As an aspiring writer, sometimes you have to go outside of your comfort zone to sharper your skills. Subsequently, when the opportunity arises, I try to attend local Meet Up groups for writers. On this evening, the round table of critics I was assigned didn’t hold back any punches. By the time the critique of my latest screen play was over, I wanted to crawl underneath the table to hide my tears.
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? – Hebrews 12:7
After this humbling experience brought disappointment, the feedback I received will do one of two things. First, their criticism could light a fire in my soul to prove each of them wrong. On the other hand, this devastating blow to my confidence might lead me to give up writing completely. When the rubber meets the road, you have to dig down deep to see if the pain you endure is worth the journey. Whenever the critics in life tear you to pieces, consider the cost before you proceed any further.
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid. – Proverbs 12:1
In the end, you have to take another person’s advice with a grain of salt. Rather, trust in the Lord and lean on His understanding to ascertain God’s will, Proverbs 3:5-6. Take the good with the bad, considering trials a pure joy so that through it all, you will grow in faith, perseverance and maturity, James 1:2-4. Therefore, whether your critics love or hate you, take each opinion in stride as you keep your eyes on the Big Guy in the sky.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 