Into the Fire

Everyday we witness or hear of extremes. Some sports are even called “Extreme” this or that. Sometimes we are “extremely” something whether it’s good, bad, sad, or mad. Or whatever.

Here’s the thing: sometimes we’ve got to make a decision. Pick a place to stand up, stand out, or stand for something. Commit to a target issue. Speak the truth, don’t forget the love. The thing about “love” is that it often includes chastisement, discipline, even punishment. Check out Hebrews, Chapter 12, if you don’t believe me.

Christians are supposed to be careful about what they say, but it seems some would require us to be mum on those things we don’t like. I think we need to be careful how we express our dislike for something, but there are times when those expressions can be useful, necessary, humorous, or meaningful.

If we choose to write, some people aren’t going to like our “stuff”, and they’re going to say so. I’m a total wuss when it comes to criticism. Fall apart like a two dollar watch, to sound cliché. However, if someone is kind enough to point out that they aren’t the target audience for my writing style, it softens the blow. A little. Well, maybe not at all. But, hey, I do know that my writing is definitely not for everyone, and I’d much rather not have somebody read my work than to read it and not like it. That’s me.

I’m one of those readers who will labor through a novel even when I don’t like it because I will give the author every possible chance to prove their book is worth my time. Normally I don’t discuss those novels I don’t like. I’ve explained to you when and why I break that general rule.

A publicist once asked me if I wouldn’t mind reviewing a novel or two on my blog. I picked one that sounded interesting but asked about what to do if I didn’t like it. Did the publisher still want a review? The answer was a definite yes. An editor I know told me that criticism was good—there should be more of it.

So should we or shouldn’t we? It’s your choice.

Father, obedience is key. Help us to be honest without being hurtful. Help us to do what you ask of us. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.