HelpFinder Bible - Flipbook - Page 85
page A83
because creativity is an extension of a characteristic of God. We have a responsibility to
reflect God’s image in appropriate ways.
What are the greatest influences on my creativity?
• PSA L M 4 5 :1 | Beautiful words stir my heart. I will recite a lovely poem about the king, for
my tongue is like the pen of a skillful poet. (See note on page 503.)
Creativity is the overflow of a full heart and mind that ultimately comes from the heart and
mind of God who created all human beings in his image.
Can our creativity become our undoing? How?
• I SA I A H 4 4 :1 6 -1 7 | He burns part of the tree to roast his meat and to keep himself warm.
. . . Then he takes what’s left and makes his god: a carved idol! He falls down in front of it,
worshiping and praying to it. “Rescue me!” he says. “You are my god!” (See note on page 642.)
With our minds and our hands we can fashion something to sustain us or something to
lead us astray.
PROMISES FROM GOD
• E PH E SI A NS 3 :2 0 | Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work
within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.
C
• E PH E SI A NS 2 :1 0 | For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus,
so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Criticism See also Advice; Communication; Conflict; Encouragement;
Judging Others; Unity & Teamwork
Though no one likes criticism—even when it is constructive—we sometimes need it. But
it is much easier to receive criticism when it is offered gently and in love, rather than in
a harsh or humiliating way. One who offers constructive criticism invests in building a
relationship and helping the other person become who God created him or her to be.
Rejecting correction is the hallmark of a fool, but a core attribute of wisdom is a teachable heart. God has given you the gift of others’ input to keep you from pursuing the
wrong path. It is easy to dismiss criticism and decide you’re on the right path. Sometimes it’s painful to hear the truth, but it’s worse to continue harmful behavior. The gentle
rebuke of a trusted friend can be God’s way of getting your attention. Sometimes God’s
guiding voice can be heard in the advice of godly people. If you’re listening for God, he
will always help you discern wise correction. But don’t let your wounded pride make you
reject constructive criticism that will help you grow.
Evaluate whether the criticism is coming from a person with a reputation for wisdom
and integrity. Ask yourself if the criticism is meant to heal or to hurt. Is the criticism just
and true? Maintain a clear conscience by being honest and trustworthy. This allows you
to shrug off criticism you know is unjustified. If criticism is justified, however, you are
wise to listen and learn.
Why should I be careful about criticizing others?
• R O MA NS 1 4 :1 0 | So why do you condemn another believer? . . . Remember, we will all
stand before the judgment seat of God. (See note on page 1025.)
• J A ME S 4 :1 1 | If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging
God’s law.
Constructive criticism can be a welcome and wholesome gift if given in the spirit of love.
But criticism that ridicules, demeans, or judges someone has at least four harmful consequences. It can (1) tear down self-esteem, making a person feel shamed and worthless;
(2) damage your reputation, making you look mean and merciless; (3) damage your ability
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Crisis See Adversity