"You know what your problem is?"

Have you ever had this said to you?

Usually, after this is spoken or written, we learn from our critic of at least one weakness, flaw, shortcoming, or sin that they don't like.

And then they want to explain to us how this problem that they see in us has caused difficulties for them and even others.

If we're spiritual people, how could we respond to this intervention?

It doesn't seem like it's constructive criticism based upon how this is communicated and the tone of it.

Think about how you felt if you've been confronted with,

"You know what your problem is?"

It's as though they're lording over us with their assessments of our lives, looking down upon us from their "throne-like" position.

It can feel like this --

"You are a bad person and I as your judge are a good person, who is now going to point out your errors of character and lifestyle."

As they're laying it on us hot and thick, we may want to defend ourselves.

Maybe we've been misunderstood and want to set the record straight.

Suggestions:

We could say, "Please tell me more."

If we want to become better, it's a genuine request to learn more.

"Thank you for sharing this. I'm aware of this and have been working on this area."

"Thanks for letting me know. I didn't think I had this problem but now I see it, thanks to you."

"Thank you. Would you be willing to help me eliminate this from my life?"

In the face of wrong living, the Father will give more grace [unearned and undeserved favor]. James 4:4-6

Your thoughts?

R. Jason