If you must criticize the Bride:
- Let all that you do be done in love.
- Regard no person by the flesh. Look past that. You don’t motivate Christians by regarding them in the flesh, you motivate Christians by encouraging them to let their spirit be supplied by the Lord.
- Make sure your criticism is not condemning, that it is motivating.
- Don’t enjoy being a critical person.
- Be mindful of your motivations, as best as you can be.
- Be open to constructive criticism of your own motivations.
- Pray before criticizing. Trust God with the results.
- Remember that you’re talking to the bride of Christ. Nothing is hidden! God is listening to every conversation.
- Never incorporate putdowns, insults, or any form of personal attacks.
- Lead by example. Like Haggai and Zechariah, roll up your sleeves afterwards and be prepared to get to work on the problem you just criticized.
