“Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life – in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.” Philippians 2:14-16
What is something you often complain about? Our society today makes complaining a natural thing to express. Every day, from the moment we wake up, we have things to complain about. However, we must understand that complaining is a serious sin against God. It’s a spiritual disease that steals our joy and also infects others.
When we complain, we display our self-centeredness. We feel as if we are the center of the universe, and everything must go according to what we have in mind. If not, then we express frustration or disappointment. Sometimes, it even leads to self-pity. But worst of all, complaining shows a lack of trust in God.
Pray to have the right perspective
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2
Often, the reason why we seek more is that we do not have the right perspective. We long for more because we think it will make us happy and complete. But the more we fixate our eyes on things that we don’t have, the more we cannot recognize God’s sovereignty over our lives.
Father God in heaven, I am sorry for having the wrong perspective. Allow me to fix my eyes on You to have a better glimpse of the eternal things. Help me change the way I think so I can see that You are always in control and You have never left me. Thank You because You have great plans for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pray to respond accordingly
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12
When we get into the habit of complaining, we cannot find ways to thank God any more for what He has blessed us with. Our faith also gets ruined because of our attitude of self-entitlement. We do not respond according to God’s will, and because of that, we let the enemy steal our peace with ourselves and peace with others.
Almighty Father, forgive me for being quick to react when faced with tribulations negatively. Please help me always see the good in You, especially in these times. Allow me to experience Your unwavering love for me on days when I can’t seem to hold on to it. I pray that I will continue to pursue You because there is always a greater reward for me that You have prepared. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pray to trust God
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” Proverbs 3:5
When nothing goes as planned and what you expect it to, it’s hard to still be hopeful in God’s amazing plans. But if you look closely, there’s nothing You can do but trust Him. It’s not that the situation is hopeless, but it’s because we fail to trust someone who turns the ordinary into extraordinary.
Sovereign and victorious Lord, help me trust You with all my heart. Remove a heart of stone in me so I will not lean on my own understanding. I know that the life I want for myself is nothing compared to what You want for me. Please remind me that no one and nothing can stop You from fulfilling Your great plans for me, not even my fears and doubts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pray to have a contented heart
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” 1 Timothy 6:6-8
Complaining says a lot about our faith and how we view God. So if others witness our attitude, their view of God becomes distorted too. But if we understand that nothing is permanent, we will see that everything is meaningless apart from God. We’ll realize that everything we have now is a blessing and everything He’ll give more is a bonus.
God, I am sorry that I always complain about the smallest things. I am sorry for not being grateful for all the things You have given me. Thank You because You are bigger than any of my complaints. Please change my heart so I can learn how to appreciate every single thing You have given me. Remove my complaining spirit. From now on, I will practice contentment. Thank You for all Your provisions. In Jesus’ name, amen.