Have you ever encountered someone with a negative attitude who sees themself as part of the problem? Someone who is known for their complaints won't be known for their self awareness. Implicit in every complaint is the cop out, "It's not my fault." Shifting blame blocks responsibility. When you won't take responsibility for the problems in your life, you set yourself up for a cycle of toxicity and disappointment.
Grumbling and complaining are what kept an entire generation of Israelites from experiencing the promised land (Numbers 14:29). On a human level, I can understand their frustration. Wandering in the desert doesn't sound ideal. I'm not the most pleasant person when some of my first world amenities aren't functioning properly.
It's important to understand the difference between frustrations and complaints. When we are saddened or disappointed by the twists and turns of life, it's ok to bring those woes to the Lord. In fact, he wants to be our source of comfort and help. Complaining is essentially letting God know where you think he's failed.
I heard someone say once there is a big difference between "this could be better" and "this isn't good enough". One perspective seeks to blame someone or something for my challenges and calls God's authority into question. The other perspective remembers God's past goodness, places hope in his future goodness, and produces a personal sense of responsibility for the things I can control.
It is almost impossible to be complaining, but committed. It is possible to be frustrated, yet grateful.
I'd love to know how I can pray over the things that are currently frustrating you! Comment below or on facebook.
