During our lifetime we may experience criticism. The best criticism is constructive. It may come from a supervisor at work, a close friend or a spouse. I have experienced marriage as a refining influence.
I am blessed to have a good marriage. My husband and I are both better people because of our relationship. We have learned to appreciate each other’s strengths, while recognizing weaknesses.
We are on a journey with Christ at the center of our relationship. We have a Christian community around us, and we have the Bible to guide us as we assist each other to become better. There are times when we need to forgive each other. The Bible gives us the guidance we need.
Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” Therefore, a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. Genesis 2:18, 24
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Listen to advice and accept instruction,
that you may gain wisdom in the future. Proverbs 19:20
Iron sharpens iron,
and one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17
Sharing this post with the Five Minute Friday writing community. Kate’s prompt is: CRITICIZE
What a beautiful post! Marriage is definitely a learning and refining experience. My husband and I have been married almost 52 years. We have had hard times and good times, and I’m thankful God brought us together and continues to work in our lives. Blessings to you! I’m your neighbor at Five Minute Friday!
Congratulations on your 51+ years! We are getting close to our 50th anniversary. Blessings to you and your family.
It is not always easy to receive feedback from others, but, when it’s done in the right way, it can definitely make us better!
Yes! And like your post, it is important to be wise and gentle in giving criticism–listening and learning the bigger picture.