How to respond to criticism well (Judg 7:24-8:3)

In my early years of teaching, student feedback forms were the things I dreaded most. Under the cloak of anonymity, some used this opportunity to vent their anger at something I said or did, never thinking of the impact of their words. Likewise, many on social media today would not dare say the hurtful things they write if they were speaking to you face-to-face. Constructive feedback is helpful, of course, but I also learnt over the years that no matter how hard you try you will never be able to please everybody. Those in an upfront role like leaders, teachers, pastors are particularly prone to be criticised, but so are parents and anyone who is not a hermit. As Aristotle allegedly said, ‘There is only one way of avoiding criticism: do nothing, say nothing and be nothing’. In fact, there is a certain progression in this because the more we hide our opinions and withdraw from human interaction that could give rise to criticism, the more we diminish as human beings and become nothing in the end.

Gideon as leader is not exempt from criticism, either. God has routed the enemy by confusing them so that they attacked each other, and Gideon now calls some of the tribes who live around the Jezreel valley to join in the pursuit as the Midianites flee towards the Jordan in the east (Judg 7:22-24).[1] The tribe of Ephraim particularly distinguishes themselves in killing the two Midianite commanders, Oreb and Zeeb. So far, so good. However, Ephraim sees a snub in the way Gideon did not call them to help from the start (Judg 8:1; 6:35). There is a hidden animosity here based on the rivalry of Ephraim and Manasseh (Gideon’s own tribe), which are the two biggest in central Israel. This may stem from their ancestors, who were Joseph’s offspring. Although Ephraim was the younger son, he received the blessing reserved for the firstborn (Gen 48:17-20), which probably predisposed the tribe to see itself as more special. The more highly we think of ourselves, the more likely it is that we end up being prickly and difficult to please.

Gideon’s response is masterly, and it takes the sting out of the situation. He could easily have tried to justify himself appealing to God’s command to limit his fighting troops. Instead, he plays up the achievement of the Ephraimites as more significant than what he was able to do in comparison (Judg 8:2-3). In his parable he praises Ephraim’s feat, their ‘gleanings’ (i.e. going over the harvested grapevines or olive trees for second pickings) as better than ‘the vintage of Abiezer’ (the grape harvest of his own clan). He demonstrates what Prov 15:1 says about the gentle answer that turns away wrath. His approach may seem easy, but it requires confidence not to take the Ephraimites’ accusation personally and become defensive. Given that Gideon has shown himself fearful and insecure from the start, this is a remarkable development and one that shows him at his best.

This episode teaches us important lessons, whether we face disapproval from Christians or outsiders. Harsh criticism is often as much or more about the critic than about the job we have done. While feedback should not be dismissed out of hand, handling it well involves humbly examining our actions. Have we done what we understood to be God’s will? It allows us to admit wrong, but also provides assurance if we did our best. Such confidence should not be a trump card to bash our accusers with, rather it can help us stand our ground and not pander to pressure. Finally, returning a gentle answer to accusations can deflate tension and avoid conflict. We are challenged to ask then where we are in the story. Are we unduly critical of others or perhaps the opposite, afraid to act, speak or be because we dread what others might think of us? Are we defensive and self-righteous when critiqued? Can we stand firmly in what is the right thing while not antagonising others unnecessarily? May we be people who seek God’s ways in both confidence and humility.

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[1] The exact location of the places listed in v.22 are uncertain but the general direction of movement from the eastern end of the Jezreel valley towards the Jordan is clear.

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