Introduction

Good morning, church. Today we're going to dive into a biggie - the issue of complaining. It's something we all do, yet it's something the Lord calls us to turn away from.

Hear these words from the apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians, chapter 2, verses 14-15:

"Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world."

Now, complaining - it's so easy to do, isn't it? But let's look at what William Law says about this. He once wrote, "He who complains of the weather, complains of the God who ordained the weather!" Wow! That's a powerful wake-up call for us to shift our perspective, isn't it?

So today, we're going to delve into how God views our grumblings, the dangers that complaining brings, and the transformative power of gratitude.

But before we start, let's bow our heads in prayer.

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the opportunity to gather here and study Your word. Open our hearts and minds as we delve into the lessons You have for us today. Help us to grasp the dangers of complaining and the blessing of a grateful heart. Guide us in our understanding and application of Your teachings. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Let’s get started.

God's Perspective on Complaining

God's perspective on complaining is not something to be taken lightly. It's a topic that is mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible, and it's clear that our Creator takes a dim view of this habit. When we complain, we are essentially expressing dissatisfaction or annoyance about something. But from God's perspective, our complaints are often a reflection of our lack of faith and trust in Him.

The Israelites in the wilderness: They had been miraculously delivered from slavery in Egypt, yet they complained about their circumstances. They grumbled about the food, the journey, and even longed to return to their life of bondage in Egypt. Their complaints were a direct affront to God's provision and care. In Numbers 11:1, it says, "And when the people complained, it displeased the Lord: and the Lord heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the Lord burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp." This shows us that God hears our complaints, and they have the potential to kindle His anger.

Reveals a heart of ingratitude: When we complain, we are focusing on what we don't have or what we wish was different, rather than being thankful for what we do have. This is contrary to God's command in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, where we are told to "give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." From God's perspective, our complaints are a rejection of His will and His blessings.

A form of rebellion against God: When we grumble about our circumstances, we are essentially saying that we know better than God. We are questioning His wisdom and His sovereignty. This was the case with the Israelites in the wilderness. Their complaints were not just expressions of dissatisfaction, but they were acts of rebellion against God's leadership and provision.

A destructive habit: It is something that can spread negativity and discontentment among His people. In Numbers 14, we see how the Israelites' complaints caused the entire community to grumble against Moses and Aaron, and even against God Himself. This led to a severe punishment from God, showing us that He takes the issue of complaining seriously.

Not meant to suppress our emotions or ignore our struggles: God invites us to bring our burdens to Him, to express our feelings and our needs. But there's a difference between sharing our struggles with God in a spirit of trust and humility, and complaining about our circumstances in a spirit of discontentment and rebellion.

The Danger of Complaining

The danger of complaining is multifaceted and far-reaching ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO