Drop your moaning (1)

Do all things without complaining. All things? Yes, it's a huge challenge. Let's see what Paul meant when he wrote that, and why it's actually very solid advice. Before he tells the people at the church in Philippi not to complain, Paul shares how God is working through them to bring about the things that please him. Then, right after this, Paul talks about how the society around the Philippian Christians is 'crooked and perverse' (Philippians 2:15 NKJV). He tells those early Christians that they can be the light in that far-from-God society. We don't think it's an accident that, in the middle of him telling them that God is using them for good, to shine his good light into a dark world, Paul warns against moaning and griping. Let's face it - we're all human; we're prone to snapping at each other and complaining about the things we don't enjoy. And we don't often stop to think the impact of our negative words.

But grumbling and bickering have direct consequences. When we moan, we're damaging our own mood, we're questioning God's know-how (more explanation on that in tomorrow's reading...), and we're dragging down those who have to listen to us. General dark-cloud sitting over us all.

But. We can choose not to moan. We can choose to allow God to fill us with his brightness, whatever the situation. When we choose positivity, we shine out with that Jesus-joy.



So what now? Today, do a chore you normally don't enjoy at all, and sing a cheerful song whilst you do it.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Do all things without complaining.' Philippians 2:14 NKJV
— SOULFOOD —

Matt 1:18-21, Acts 3:1-16, Phil 2:9-11