Feedback is invaluable to any business, especially in a fast-moving world where staying grounded in reality is key. Ecclesiastes 7:5 (ESV) says, “It is better for a man to hear the rebuke of the wise than to hear the song of fools.” This scripture reminds us that honest feedback, even when it’s hard to hear, helps us improve. Businesses thrive when they listen to wise critiques, because this allows them to correct mistakes and make better decisions. Ignoring feedback, on the other hand, leads to stagnation. The true mark of growth is the willingness to learn from others.
Your business, nonprofit, or ministry cannot succeed beyond the quality of feedback you’re receiving. In the Bible, Moses received valuable feedback from his father-in-law, Jethro, that helped him restructure his approach to leadership and manage his responsibilities more effectively. This same principle applies to any organization. You could be solving the wrong problem, doing the right thing in the wrong way, or missing something obvious that others can easily see. Good feedback helps you cut through confusion and refocus your efforts. It opens your eyes to blind spots and brings clarity to areas that need improvement.
You need to actively seek out feedback, both constructive and not-so-constructive. This requires an open heart and mind, ready to receive even the most uncomfortable truths. Sometimes feedback may come wrapped in emotions or harsh words, but there is often a kernel of truth buried within. Your task is to find that truth and use it to grow. Discard the unnecessary emotional packaging, but hold on to the insights that can drive improvement. The ability to accept and apply feedback is essential to the long-term success of your business, ministry, or personal growth.
