Complaining Isn't Godly

... and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee (Hebrews 13:5b).

Christians are supposed to be content in Christ, but are we? Do we have our eyes fixed on Him instead of our own situations or worldly pursuits? When we focus on ourselves and getting our needs and desires met, we are never satisfied. We'll never have enough to be content. Selfishness causes many of the world's problems, including stubbornness, pride, greed, conflict, and divorce.

And when the people complained, it displeased the Lord: and the Lord heard it; and his anger was kindled (Numbers 11:1a).

Look at the Israelites when Moses led them from slavery in Egypt. All they did was complain. Even manna from heaven wasn't good enough for them. As a result, they got within eleven miles of the Promised Land and God, fed up with their grumbling, turned them to wander in the wilderness for forty years until the only two of that generation left to enter into the Promised Land were Joshua and Caleb who trusted God and believed His promises. Complainers and grumblers are out of God's will.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).

Do we really believe this verse? Do we truly believe God wants only the very best for us? Then why would we ever grumble or complain? If we have Christ in our lives, we should be content. In the larger picture, this life is so fleeting and temporary, and we have such a glorious eternity to look forward to. With thankful hearts full of worship and praise, we can live blessed lives filled with peace and contentment beyond anything the world can offer.

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