Any fool can Criticise

Any Fool Can Criticise

“The whole army then returned intact to the camp and to Joshua at Makkedah. There was no criticism that day from the people of Israel.” (Joshua 10:21

Anyone can criticise. It takes no wisdom to point out faults. But it takes character to overlook an offence, and spiritual maturity to restore a fallen person with love. One of the sad consequences of the Fall is that humans now seem wired to hunt for mistakes. While Scripture tells us that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory, it was never meant to turn us into fault-finders or judges of one another.

Israel had just secured a remarkable victory over a coalition of enemies. In most serious organisations, such a moment would be followed by reviews and assessments—what went wrong, who failed, what could have been better. Yet the Bible records something striking: “There was no criticism that day.” Victory silenced blame. Gratitude replaced grumbling. Unity triumphed over fault-finding.

The Apostle Paul captures the right posture for believers when it comes to dealing with one another’s weaknesses:

“Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day’s out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ’s law." (Galatians 6:1–2 (MSG)

Life is already demanding and heavy. A little kindness can change everything. People are more willing to do better when they know they are supported, not scrutinised. Patience helps us see more clearly—be patient with others, and just as importantly, be patient with yourself.

Reflection
How quickly do I criticise compared to how quickly I restore? Do my words heal or wound? Today’s text invites us to choose grace over judgment and restoration over reproach.

Prayer
Lord, deliver me from a critical spirit. Teach me to see people through Your eyes of mercy and compassion. Help me to restore gently, love sincerely, and speak words that build rather than break. Give me patience with others and with myself, that I may truly reflect the law of Christ. Amen.

Have a fruitful day,
(Dr.) Emmanuel Okoro
(aka Dr. Lift)

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