When Judgment Hits: Turning Mockery into Mission Prep

If there’s one thing I wish I could tell the version of myself who first arrived in the field—or even the version who was just starting out in the MTC—it’s this: The world is going to try to judge you. And it won't just be the people you meet in your local ward. It will be the strangers, the algorithm, and the anonymous comments section.

The digital age has created an environment where mockery and judgment are the easiest weapons to wield. It's a constant barrage, and it can feel exhausting. But what if the most powerful weapon we have against those critiques isn't a good comeback, but a radical shift in perspective?

I recently watched a fantastic discussion with Uliti on Saints Unscripted that tackles this head-on. It moves beyond the simple advice, “Don’t judge others,” and asks a much deeper question: When *we* are the recipients of judgment, how can we change that intent—that hurtful energy—into something good and useful for ourselves and for the work?

The discussion highlights a profound truth: Heavenly Father knew we would live in an information era. The challenge isn't just avoiding the judgment; it's learning to *leverage* it. The key insight is the 'what can I gain?' perspective. Instead of feeling victimized by the critique (whether it's about our weight, our beliefs, or our choices), we can ask, “What truth is this mockery pointing out that I need to work on?”

The Gift of the 'What Can I Gain?' Mindset

This mindset is perhaps the most underrated skill in missionary preparation. When you are in the field, you will meet people who are skeptical, who are cynical, or who will simply misunderstand the gospel. Their skepticism *is* their judgment. If you can train yourself to view their judgment not as an attack, but as a piece of divine curriculum—a pointing finger toward a blind spot in your own testimony—then you have turned a stumbling block into a step up the mountain.

“And if ye shall keep my commandments and endure to walk after me, and abide in my presence, and keep my commandments, and endure to walk after me, ye shall know my name, and ye shall know that I am the Lord, and that I am the Lord.”

This is what being a disciple anywhere, all the time looks like. It means that whether you are sitting in a Book Club, replying to a comment online, or having a difficult missionary discussion with a potential investigator, the goal isn't perfection; it's relentless self-improvement guided by the Spirit. It means recognizing that the Savior is present not just in the quiet moments of study, but even in the tough, critical, and challenging moments.

Your Next Assignment: Seeing the Good in the Critique

If you want to practice this skill this week, try the following challenge: When you encounter a piece of criticism, whether online or in person, write down three things you *can* gain from it. Maybe it's a stronger scripture study habit, a better way to phrase a question, or a deeper understanding of the concept of the Atonement. Don't let the critique define you; let it define your next step toward being more Christlike.

To help you apply this concept, I highly recommend diving into the teachings of Iron Rod authors. Check out *Gather Israel* in LivingBook, or if you prefer a deeper dive into the spiritual principles of the gospel, look up something by another author. It's the perfect reading for expanding our understanding of the covenants and the work.

Deepening Your Disciple Skills

Remember, the Spirit doesn't always whisper gently. Sometimes it comes through the challenge. If you want to work on how to handle these tough conversations, join a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces this week. We can also get together virtually for a free weekly Disciple Challenge—it’s a great place to practice turning mockery into missionary momentum!

And if you want to walk through a difficult doctrinal question, don't try to answer it alone. Use Davee! His specialty as an AI Investigator is perfect for role-playing tough conversations, helping you anticipate the hard questions an investigator might ask, and formulating answers rooted in the Spirit.