There are lots of different enemies that work to pull us of off track, away from our goals and out of the blessed life, but three of the biggest and most detremental are: Criticism, Condemnation and Complaining.

Criticism, condemnation and complaining is disapproval of someone or something based on the perception of faults are mistakes. They work against us in a couple of different ways. There is the criticism, condemnation and complaining that comes from others and is expressed toward us and this can impact us in a very negative way, especially if taken in the wrong way. And there is also criticism, condemnation and complaining which comes from ourself and is expressed toward others, which can distract us from what really matters and hurt our ability to work as a team with others for everyone’s blessing and success.

Criticism, condemnation and complaining can be productive and positive or destructive and negative based on how it is delivered and received. The key to overcoming The Big “C” enemies is learning to deliver and receive in a constructive way, with the goal of making things better and more effective. The problem is that most people in the world today are often selfish and ego driven and use the Big “C” enemies to tear up and tear down, rather than build up and make better.

“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” -Galatians 6:1

You cannot decide for anyone else, but you can decide for yourself. So here are a few tips to help you overcome the Big “C” enemies in the giving and the receiving:

1. Ask Yourself The Important Questions: 1.) Is it true? 2.) Does it matter? 3.) What difference does it make? To gain real clarity ask and answer this question honestly: What will this matter a year, 5 years, 100 years from now???

2. Learn what you need to learn about yourself and about others. Allow the Big “C” enemies to open your eyes, ears and heart to what is going on around you and you will be better equipped to handle whatever life decides to throw your way. Remember: That which does not kill you, makes you stronger!

3. Do your best to cut the Big “C” enemies out of your life as far as it depends on you. What good does it do you to criticize, condemn or complain about someone else? If you are honest with yourself, then it might give you a good feeling, but that good feeling is only temporary and doesn’t do anything to really lift us up to a better place, but it can do a lot to push us and others down. If there is a problem, confront it in an honest, up front and meaningful way – with the goal of making things better for all involved and don’t wait, do it when it needs to be done, so everyone can move on to better as soon as possible. If someone criticizies, condemns or complains about you, then be honest with yourself about it’s legitimacy or illegitimacy, learn what you need to learn and move on.

The Big “C” enemies are ugly, but not really all that powerful, unless and until we make them that way. So fight the good fight, learn, grow and overcome. You will be glad you did…