“A city is built up by the blessing of the upright,
but it is torn down by the mouth of the wicked.”
– Proverbs

 

If you have been coaching very long, you have probably developed a thick skin. It’s not easy being in the line of fire for criticism that can come from any direction. Administrators, fans, fellow coaches and players all have their own expectations of the job we should be doing. It’s easy for us to question ourselves and crumble under the attack. David Roper, in his book A Burden Shared, says, “there are four truths about criticism: (1) it always comes when we need it the least; (2) it often comes when we least deserve it; (3) it usually comes from people who are the least qualified to give it; and (4) it frequently comes in a form that is the least helpful to us.”

I don’t know what criticisms you face today, but I would like to offer the following suggestions for dealing with them. First, stay calm and take your case to the Lord in prayer. Don’t quit, and don’t stop. Count on the Lord to give you the strength and courage to face the storm. Find a brother or sister in Christ who can provide consistent encouragement. And finally, seek relief and peace in His Word. We must also be on guard with our own words and attitudes.  Remember every person you meet today is either a demolition site or a construction opportunity. Your words make a difference. Will they be weapons for destruction or tools for construction?

Lord, help me choose my words carefully today. Help me build others up rather than tear them down. Amen.