Blog: How I Handle Criticism

Over the years I’ve had to battle with critics and those who openly share their differing opinions with me in racing. The two biggest things that I get put down for is because I am female and because of my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. I’ve been asked how I handle situations as such, and how my faith differentiates my responses to people. When people choose to disagree with me verbally I think they are either looking to get a “rise out of me”, confirming their choice to dislike me, or to be shown love. I believe that’s why it’s so important to choose my “battles” wisely, and to always respond with grace and love.

I think the hardest thing for me to not take too hard is when people tell me they weren’t impacted positively for the Lord Jesus Christ by my words or actions. It just sort of hits me like a blow below the knees, and regardless of how I respond in the situation, I have a tendency to hold on to those hurts. This morning I was reading in my bible in John 15. In verse 18 it said “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” (this was Jesus talking). Jesus further said how He had come here on earth and preached to people who turned away from His teachings, and because they had heard but yet not believed, they had no excuse for their sins. This teaching ended in verse 25b saying “They hated me without reason” (meaning they choose to not believe they could be saved by the Lord Jesus Christ for no lack of proof).

I do believe that Christ expressed how some people may not want to believe in Him still today simply because they choose to not. This is something I think I need to keep in mind for those hard times. And, I also know I am not perfect in how I respond to those who disagree with my antics and life choices. I hope to continue growing to only respond in love so that you might come to find Christ and His love as well. Please message me with any questions. :) Dealing with differing opinions and criticism is never easy, but I know God will continue to teach me on how to respond in love. :)

Living by Faith, 
​Mianna