Nehemiah's life teaches us about how to handle criticism. We all come under the fire of criticism from time to time. How we handle it is very important especially if the criticism has to do with an assignment given to us by God. I will encourage you to read the book of Nehemiah so you can glean some very good insights on this topic. 
 
Expect it: When spectators watch a race, the focus is usually on the front runners! So expect more eyes to be on you if you are doing something worthwhile with your life or for the kingdom of God. If you perceive in your spirit that the criticism is baseless and it's meant as a distraction, then you must answer like Nehemiah did: "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down" (Nehemiah 6:3). Never step down to the level of your critics.
 
Evaluate it: "Sanballat...sent to me saying, "Come let us meet...But they thought to do me harm" (Nehemiah 6:2). When you are criticized ask yourself two questions: (a) Who criticized me? Has the person earned the right to speak into my life? (b) Why was the criticism given? Out of a personal hurt or for my benefit? Hurting people hurt people, so maintain the right attitude, make necessary changes if needed and move on.
 
Outlive it: When Nehemiah's friends told him to run and hide, he replied, "I will not...So the wall was finished in fifty-two days. Some criticisms will make you want to give up. You will be tempted to quit on the vision and assignment. Like Nehemiah you must go ahead with what God's called you to do and outlive the criticism.