Team Builder: Criticism

From Matthew 7:1-2 (AMP). “DO NOT judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves. For just as you judge and criticize and condemn others, you will be judged and criticized and condemned, and in accordance with the measure you [use to] deal out to others, it will be dealt out again to you.”

At Thomas Jefferson’s home in Virginia, Monticello, he kept a plant growing in his garden called the “Sensitive Plant.” A tap from a passerby on one of the thin branches causes it to bow low toward the ground. Criticism has a similar effect on the human heart. When we mistake criticism for “discernment” or “input” we can end giving those we lead too much of a seemingly good thing. We are surprised when they are bowed low, and fearful in their next adventure. Try giving three parts encouragement to one part correction in your team relationships. You may be surprised how it boomerangs back to you.

Lord, give me an eye to see the flowers among my team, and the weeds only after.