Have you ever complained about your spouse to one of your friends? Or maybe you’ve grumbled about a particularly difficult friend? Or maybe you voiced concerns about your pastor or an elder in your church?
The Bible warns us against speaking or complaining against a brother or sister (James 4:11; 5:9). Why?
Because they are God’s workmanship (Eph. 2:10). When we criticize another brother or sister, we are actually saying that God’s workmanship does not live up to our standards, that He is not doing a very good job.
This is certainly a test of our faith, isn’t it? Do you trust that God is working in that contentious, hard-to-live-with friend of yours? Do you believe God is working in your spouse or child? Do you believe God is working in your pastor’s heart? If not, you need an attitude adjustment.
Paul said if we have a complaint against anyone, instead of being unforgiving and bitter, we should put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, forbearing with them, and forgiving them (Colossians 3:12-13).
After being delivered from Egypt, some Hebrews grumbled. Paul says God was not well pleased with them; accordingly, they were “laid low in the wilderness.” Complaining and grumbling will keep you in a low place. Thanksgiving and praise will lift you higher.
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