Philippians 2:14-15: – “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”
Psychologists say that “grumbling” is an expression of negativity, doubt and fear. It is the way some people vent their feelings and express their dissatisfaction. However, complaining can become an ugly habit over time and unconsciously such people would become pessimistic, touchy and moody. They will not be able to appreciate or enjoy the goodness around them.
God’s Word is crystal clear that nothing should be done with grumbling. Grumbling and complaining will lead to arguing and bickering. Grumblers are ungrateful. To be found blameless in the eyes of the Lord, who is the source of all blessings, there must be no trace of grumbling in us. Grumbling is a little fox that will chew up the vine and will disconnect the flow of divine peace and joy.
Doubt and apprehension in the mind and heart will resound as grumbling in the mouth. Time and again, the people grumbled against the Lord and Moses in the wilderness. The people grew impatient on the way; they spoke against God and against Moses (Numbers 21:4b-5a). Doubt and disbelief surged fearful forebodings in the travelling hoard and they became pessimistic and contemptuous every time they faced a challenge.
If we are not watchful, doubt can creep in and steal the serenity of the heart. A heart that is empty of gratitude and contentment will become cynical, clamorous and contentious.
A doubtful heart is darkened by fear and will be dimmed by dread and worry.
Catch the little foxes of grumbling, murmuring and complaining:
1. Doubtful: Doubt will be followed by fear, low self-esteem and grumbling. Catch the little foxes of doubt before it chews up the vine and disconnects the flow of peace. Defeat doubt before it defeats your faith.
2. Dim: Grumbling and complaining will dim our divine focus. Negative confessions are not venting our feelings; it is an expression of ungratefulness.
3. Desperate: Grumbling makes us anxious and clogs our mind with desperation. Desperation leads to wrong choices and compromises.
Destroy the little foxes of grumbling.
Prayer: Dearest Holy Spirit, when doubt dims my heart, remind me to stand on the promises and defeat the fear and desperation. Amen.
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