Criticize by Creating

Upon reflection, I realized that my previous post didn't sit well with me. It's not because I'm wavering on its message, but rather because it failed to make a positive contribution. The air of complaining was too thick, and it lacked any hopeful resolution.

As disciples of Jesus, we are people of hope. Even in the times of lament, our hope stems from the presence of God.

Moreover, I believe that God has positioned me to help pave the way forward. My frustration lies in the sense that I haven't been doing so with deliberate focus.

While contemplating my own frustration, I recalled a passage from Chase the Lion,* by Mark Batterson. He wrote:

Too often the church complains about culture instead of creating it. The energy we spend on criticism is being stolen from creativity. It’s sideways energy. We need fewer commentators and more innovators. I try to live by Michelangelo’s maxim: criticize by creating. Quit complaining about what’s wrong, and do something that makes a difference!

“Criticizing by creating” is exactly what I’d like to do. We have all experienced the discomfort of life in this present age, and the problem is evident to many people. My aspiration is to make a contribution that helps individuals cultivate mature spiritual lives that are well suited for our times.

And, with God’s help, I will.

Thanks for reading.

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*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links to the books referenced. Should you choose to use these links, I may earn affiliate commissions at no additional cost to you. Thank you for reading; I appreciate your support!