Robert A. Cook, former president of King's College in New York, told a true story from the early years of his ministry. He had been receiving some rather pointed criticism, and he sought the counsel of a friend, pastor Harry A. Ironside.

Pouring out his heart, Dr. Cook asked what he should do about the accusations being made against him. Ironside responded, "Bob, if the criticism about you is true, mend your ways! If it isn't, forget about it!"

The stinging barbs hurled at us by our adversaries may be uncalled for. When a verbal attack comes, therefore, it's well to analyze it. If it isn't justified, let it roll like water off a duck's back. If the accusation is true, however, take the necessary steps to correct the situation. I like what the apostle Peter said, "If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. . . . But let none of you suffer as . . . an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters" (1 Pet. 4:14-15).

Are you being criticized? Are charges being made against you? If the accusations are true--mend your ways! If they're false--forget about them! That's how to handle criticism.  — Richard De Haan