Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may be 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 as you hold firmly to the word of life. (Philippians 2:14-16)
“That’s not my favorite,” one of my kids announced as he saw what was for supper. Sound familiar? Complaining is far too common at our house: “It’s too hot!” “It’s too cold!” “I don’t want to go.” “I’m not tired.” “I don’t like that!” All day long. Why do our kids grumble and complain about everything?
I think I know why. It’s because I do. They get it from me, just like your kids get it from you. Sure, as we get older we find less obvious ways to grumble, but if someone were to follow you around all day, how many complaints would they hear? If someone could read your thoughts, how many complaints would they see? “I can’t stand her.” “This is so unfair.” “Why is this happening to me?”…
Paul—the man who was chained up for his faith—stops us in our tracks: “Do everything without grumbling or arguing.” Oh boy. That hits home for me. It should. Being discontent with God’s plan for our lives is a clear sign of unbelief that clouds our hearts and our minds.
What’s the solution? I once heard someone say: “The opposite of discontentment is gratitude.” It may not be your favorite food, but you have food and lots of it! It might be hot or cold, but you have air conditioning—or a coat! Life might not seem fair, but you have a Savior—Jesus Christ! He suffered the greatest injustice by dying on the cross to win heaven for us. The opposite of discontentment is gratitude for God’s blessings. Can you see that?
When you do, you’re ready to make a powerful impact on the world. Did you hear what Paul calls the content children of God? Stars! “Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.” When Christians live their lives with contentment, they really stand out. When Christians don’t grumble and complain, they powerfully point to the grace of God for us in Jesus.
Want to shine like a star? No more complaining! Instead, hold firmly to the word of life.
Dear Jesus, forgive me for all my grumbling. It’s so tempting to see everything I don’t have, instead of seeing what I have in you. Stop my complaining today by opening my eyes to all your blessings. Amen.

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