**“To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person.”** Luke 6:27–28 (The Message) ===  There is not a leader or anyone in ministry who has not at one time or another faced criticism. It seems to come with the territory and should probably be written into the job description itself, but how we deal with it will play a large role in our success or failure. Find solace in the fact that many others have been where you are. **“And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.”** Matthew 5:11–12 (MESSAGE). Learning how to evaluate the situation is a critical factor in dealing with the problem. Quite often, the real underlying issue is quite different from what is stated. Try and make a determination to see if the real problem goes much deeper than the surface accusation. A leader will often be the target of people with frustrations because they want to be heard and often validated. There are several things that a leader must do when confronted with criticism. After taking a deep breath and pausing for a moment, it is wise to do a personal assessment to determine if any of the criticism is valid. It is possible, even though it may be delivered improperly, that there is some truth in what is being said against you. If this is the case, apologize and make every effort to make the situation right. Remember that God can even use a donkey to deliver a message. Regardless of whether the attack on you is justified or not, we have an obligation to respond with love. How we respond is often times more important than whatever issue is involved. Long after the core issue is forgotten, how you dealt with it will be remembered. As a leader or pastor, people are watching and evaluating your actions at all times. Always consider the big picture as you seek responses and solutions. Do not settle for winning the battle and then losing the war. After thorough consideration, respond with love, not with vengeance or anger, but with a desire to restore the relationship. Pray fervently for the person and seek the best for them. If a resolution to the conflict can be found, move on from there and do not dwell in the past. Remember these words: **“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”** 1 Corinthians 13:4–5 (NIV). That last part can be especially difficult. Do not keep a scorecard of the criticism or offense, but keep moving forward, remembering that your mission is to advance the cause of the gospel. If the conflict cannot be resolved and there will be times that regardless of what you do, there will be a parting of the ways, do your best to let it go and remember the words: **“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”** Romans 12:18 (NIV)