The Dirt Don’t Define You

By Justin Pratt

Clear Springs Baptist Church Senior Pastor

If there are two things we should all desire in our walk with God it’s these: spiritual maturity and godly humility.

In 2 Samuel 16, as King David was walking through one of the darkest valleys of his life, out of nowhere comes one of his critics, Shimei from the family of Saul, cursing, criticizing, and literally and figuratively slinging dirt at him and his friends.

This emotionally charged situation provides us with an important lesson on how to respond to criticism. While many of us might have reacted with anger or defensiveness, David demonstrates surprising restraint. His response reflects the maturity and humility he has developed over time.

David’s men offered to silence Shimei permanently by taking his head, but David responded, “Let him alone, and let him curse…” While it’s nice to have loyal friends who stand up for you, David knew that it was not worth it to waste time on unjust criticism.

His maturity shone through as he chose not to retaliate, defend himself, or prove anything to anyone. He didn’t even want his friends to defend him. Instead, he humbly submitted the situation to God, trusting that God would handle what was beyond his control.

We cannot control what others say or do, but we can control how we respond. I believe David understood that sometimes people lash out not because of who you are, but due to their own bitterness or jealousy. He recognized that just because someone is loud, it doesn’t mean they are right, and just because you are quiet, it doesn’t mean you are weak.

So, the next time someone criticizes you, spreads gossip, or falsely accuses you, take a note from David:

1) Stay Humble.

David demonstrated incredible character under pressure. He refused to tarnish his testimony with retaliation. True strength lies in the ability to choose restraint over revenge, and David exemplified this.

Real humility is rooted in your identity with God, rather than in the approval or criticism of others.

2) Keep Moving Forward.

David and his men were wounded and weary, yet they continued to walk. Even when Shimei hurled insults and accusations at them along the road, David remained focused and ignored the unjust criticism. Sometimes, the most humble response is simply to take silent, steady steps forward.

David did not stop to argue, justify himself, or retaliate. Instead, he kept moving toward God, trusting that God would address what he could not change. When we are determined to pursue something for the glory of God, we cannot allow the negative attitudes of others to stall our spiritual progress. Just keep moving forward.

3) Trust God with Your Name, Your Future, and Your Peace.

This involves viewing your circumstances through the lens of God’s sovereignty. David knew he didn’t need to prove himself to anyone. He let go of pride and did not demand vindication, nor did he let ego drive him to seek retribution. This is a common mistake many people make.

It’s crucial not to let petty insults distract you. Although it can be challenging, we must learn to trust God more than our emotions.

When life gets tough and people come at you with criticism, keep this in mind: There will always be those who throw stones and dirt. You don’t have to catch every stone or respond to every critic. Instead, focus on staying in step with God and let Him turn that dirt they’re throwing into the fertile soil where your next season begins to grow right beneath your own two feet. Remember, their dirt don’t define you.