This morning I was reading in I Corinthians where Paul was giving instructions to the church. As he talked about the Isralites after they left Egypt and how many were allowed to be killed by snakes because of their sinful ways. He said they were to serve as examples to us and I was brought up short by this verse:
"You must stop complaining, as some of them were doing, and were annihilated by the destroyer." (1 Corinthians 10:10 ISV)
It is so easy sometimes to see complaints as no big deal, but as I've seen all the instruction about rejoicing in all circumstances and being thankful in all things, I've begun to understand that complaining about anything is REALLY our saying that God isn't doing His job properly. How dare we! We are told in Romans 8:28 that ALL THINGS work together for good (emphasis mine). Do we trust Him or not?
I find it sad when I realize how hard it seems to be to eliminate complaining from my life. Complaining seems to be such a part of interacting in this world - of fitting in! So much of conversation with others seems centered on complaining. Yet we are told instead: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is fair, whatever is pure, whatever is acceptable, whatever is commendable, if there is anything of excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—keep thinking about these things." (Philippians 4:8-9 ISV) And to "not be conformed to this world" (Romans 12:2). Fitting in is not what we are to be doing, and complaining is really speaking against God! Some pretty heavy duty ideas here - what a challenge!
Father, please forgive me for my complaining ways and put that right spirit within me that chooses instead to praise you in all things. May I continually remember that YOU are in charge of my life and you do all things well! Thank you, Father, for being so patient with me. Once again I ask that you guide my thoughts and actions this day! Please remove this tendency toward complaining from me and put your praise on my lips in its place! Thank you, Father for your blessings, your power, and your love. Thank you for your guidance. Amen.
1 comment:
I needed this reminder today. Thanks!
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This blog is simply a sharing of my "daily bread" - my daily walk with God. If something I've said has touched your heart, or sparked a new thought, I'd love to hear from you.