“We are never trying to avoid critique. What we are trying to do is get people to consider, contemplate, and wrestle with Jesus.”

I love this. When I heard these words, spoken by Tyler Johnson from the organization Come Near*, it resonated with me. It aligned with what I hope my blog accomplishes. Though I will be honest. I hate critique. In fact, just the nature of putting anything “out there” whether through media, blog post, publishing, speaking, etc. forces me to ask myself the question, “How much do I care what people think of me?”

The truth is, I hate criticism of any kind. The fear of what others think has had a hold on me for way too long. But, after being on this planet for half a century and following Jesus for most of that time, I am letting Jesus take my hand and teach me to be bold for Him. This is a process for me, but one I happily am engaging in. Because, in the end, what I want is to help others take that step closer to Him. And it is truly freeing. Let me invite you to do the same. Who are you living your life for? Who’s opinion do you fear the most? How much do you care about what others think of you? Are you willing to accept some criticism if, in the end, you are also doing what God wants you to do?

If you don’t yet know Jesus personally, then let me invite you to take a step closer. Open a Bible to the book of John and read. Or reach out if I can help.

*Tyler’s organization produces the Jesus ads you’ve probably seen if you watch the Superbowl. Source: The Holy Post, Show 707