I am so grateful that the Lord will use constructive criticism to remind me to look to Him for guidance; I am so grateful that Jesus showed us His infinite mercy and justice so that I have His example to follow; I am so grateful for every time I make a mistake, the Lord has comforted me with His mercy. No matter our age and our experience, we are all students in the classroom of growth. When we understand this identity, we can see criticism as an opportunity to grow and become a godly tool in the ministry of the Lord. Because “Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. – 1 Corinthians 13:5.” Over the years, when I was criticized maliciously, I would immediately ask the Lord for help: “Let me understand what the lesson I need to learn this time.” While I still have a lot to learn, the criticism I face always brings out the real problems when I remember that the Lord is a loving teacher. Constructive criticism to me is always offered in caring, with the intention of building me up. It addresses my specific needs, not just a list of my shortcomings or character flaws.