In life, we often encounter disappointments, difficulties, and moments that test our patience and resilience. Sometimes, those situations can be serious, and shedding some tears or getting frustrated is understandable. Unfortunately, we sometimes let circumstances get the better of us when it’s not warranted. We sometimes let our feelings get hurt when they don’t need to be hurt. And we sometimes grumble and complain over things we shouldn’t.
Difficulties in life are a given, but the Bible warns us against dwelling in and especially wallowing in negativity. And it strongly warns against letting any bitterness seep into our hearts.
Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, admonishes, “Do all things without murmurings and disputings” (Philippians 2:14, KJV). This verse isn’t just a call for outward compliance; it’s an invitation to examine our hearts.
Before you respond with something along the lines of “But you don’t understand…,” know that the Holy Spirit who moved Paul to write those words does understand.
You should also know that Paul, no doubt, was preaching to himself as well. He wouldn’t have had to address this point if it weren’t part of the human condition. We have a tendency, thanks to our sinful nature, to respond to difficulties, challenges, annoyances, and the like with “murmurings and disputings.”
Yet murmurings (grumblings) and disputings (arguments) reflect a deeper discontent, a spirit not in harmony with the joy and peace that Christ offers. Paul understood that such attitudes could spread like a contagion, disrupting unity and sowing discord within the community.
And that was the primary context and emphasis of his words in Philippians 2–the community of believers (i.e., the church). Paul knew that few things can tear apart a church more than murmurings (grumblings) or disputings (arguing).
Turning to the Old Testament, we find a powerful example of this with the Israelites during their exodus. Well, actually a few examples. Despite witnessing God’s miraculous deliverance, they frequently fell into a pattern of grumbling. In Numbers 14:27, God responds to their attitude: “How long shall I bear with this evil congregation, which murmur against me?” Here, “murmur” translates from the Hebrew “רָגַן” (ragan), capturing the essence of a rebellious, ungrateful spirit.
None of this is to suggest we can’t or shouldn’t take our burdens or frustrations to God in prayer. There is a difference between expressing genuine pain or hardship versus a habitual attitude of sulking and grumbling. The Psalms are filled with raw, honest cries of distress, yet they never justify bitterness or hatred toward God.
Consider David’s words in Psalm 55:22, “Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” David encourages us to take our burdens to the Lord, not to carry them as fodder for endless complaints.
In our modern context, the challenge remains. Social media platforms, for instance, can easily become echo chambers of discontent, amplifying our tendency to sulk and grumble. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to a different standard – one that seeks to find joy and gratitude in all circumstances, as Paul exemplifies in his own life.
So, what should we do when we find ourselves slipping into patterns of sulking and grumbling? Consider this action plan:
- First, we need to prayerfully consider our hearts. Are our complaints reflective of a deeper issue – perhaps a lack of trust in God’s plan or an ungrateful spirit?
- Second, we must take our burdens to the Lord in prayer. He is not only our Savior but also our confidant and counselor. In His presence, we can lay down our frustrations and find peace.
- Lastly, we must guard against bitterness taking root in our spirit. Hebrews 12:15 warns, “Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” Bitterness can defile not just ourselves but also those around us.
As we navigate the ups and downs of life, let’s strive to cultivate a heart of gratitude and faith—and a spirit of love (for God and for our neighbor). In doing so, we not only honor God but also find a more fulfilling and joyful path.
Remember, the Lord sustains and supports us – in our joys and in our struggles. Let’s lean on His everlasting arms and find our peace in Him.
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