How to Be Courages in the Face of Criticism Host: Stephen Carter, CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC. In Deuteronomy 31:6, we’re told, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Anytime you speak your truth, there will be those who are quick to criticize. Unfortunately, many of your loudest critics are family members, supposed friends, and co-workers. While a few critics may have your best interests at heart - they don’t for example want you to fail - most criticize you because they want you be a certain way. They want you to be the person they believe you to be. Any deviation creates alarm bells that lead them to try and “rein you in”, to get you back to the way they believe you are or should be. In short, they want to control you. In Deuteronomy 31:6, you’re promised that God will be with you when you’re strong and courageous. You’re encouraged to “speak your truth”, to be the person God intended you to be. Allow your courage to lead you and God will be with you. To comment on this episode or to otherwise reach out, email me at [email protected].