No complaining?
Do all things without complaining and disputing, Philippians 2:14
I have really been enjoying this journey through the book of Philippians. Even though I thought I knew much of it, simply breaking it down into smaller sections has really brought out new revelation. Today’s verse for example, I have mentally “known” for years. Because I know this scripture, I know that it is wrong to complain about anything, but come on, really? Are we really expected not to complain . . . ever? I mean just look at the year we have lived in 2020. Pandemic, social distancing, masks . . . just to name a few of common complaints we hear everyday. What about everything shutting down, shopping, jobs, churches? I won’t even get into the whole political realm. Then there are personal things like family, friends and neighbors. Are we really expected not to voice our opinions about how wrong these things are? I mean, most people can’t even have a conversation without speaking their disapprovals, worries or fears. I can’t even imagine a would without hearing hundreds of complaints each day.
However, there is a promise that goes along with this admonishing to do all things without complaining or disputing/arguing. That promise is that you will be blameless/innocent, harmless (meaning you won’t hurt anyone) children of God. You will be unblemished right in the middle of a crooked/devious and perverse people. Not only that, but by not complaining and arguing, you will shine as a light to the world! That’s pretty awesome!
So go ahead and hold on tight to the words that bring life and peace to every situation and don’t try to stir up more anger and strife in your area of influence. Whether it’s your work, your neighborhood or even your church group, make the adjustment today to only speak words that encourage and life up others. Then rejoice that you are not doing life in vain but on purpose. The purpose of being hope to the hopeless. The purpose of being light to the darkness. The purpose of being peace to the confusion and fear. The purpose of being God’s child that knows the way to His abundant life.
Today I want to encourage you to read this portion of scripture like it is the first time you have ever read it. Take a step back and just think about the complaining and arguing that is done on a daily basis. Now make a decision that you will no longer take part in that side of life. Take your stand to always speak words that bring life and the goodness of your Heavenly Father into every situation and conversation. Begin today to live your life to bring honor and glory to your Savior, not to bring criticizing and complaining to your world. Now you can be the light that God has always intended you to be!
Today’s scripture reading: Philippians 2:14-17
