Criticism vs Blessings

Today was only the second or third time I've turned around a criticism of someone into a blessing on someone. Well, it was for "two" someone's.

The first person asked me to do something and assured me that it was all right with the community authorities. I didn't see how they could have agreed, but I took him at his word and took notes so I could follow through. Something made me check later and I found out he had lied to me. I was glad that I did not make a fool of myself and do it blindly. But on the other hand, I found myself criticizing him, mentally, and then again verbally to the community authorities.

The second person called me several days ago and complained bitterly about someone I had recommended to her. I took her at her word, called them, and ranted over the phone, demanding they return my call (they were unavailable) and explain what had happened. The next day, I realized I had let her attitude affect and infect me. As I thought about her complaint, I suddenly completely understood what had really happened. I called the company and apologized and explained what my thoughts. They agreed about the events, and we parted on a nice note. This means I must still call her, probably tomorrow, and explain to her the true situation. If she accepts it, wonderful; if not, that is her problem.

Tonight when I was saying my evening prayers, I suddenly realized I could pray for both of them. I didn't pray for them to be what I thought they should be. I prayed instead for blessings for them, that IF the Lord felt they needed to change their attitude, that he bless them, enabling them to do so. And IF the Lord felt that it was I whose attitude needed changing, he do likewise for me.

Dear Lord, help me always to rely on your wisdom and not on mine when it comes to judging people and situations; fill me with whatever I need to avoid criticizing blindly, and to instead pray for understanding of your will.