Day Eleven

Bible Reading

Phil 2:14-18 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.

Devotional

If we’re being honest, not a day goes by that we aren’t complaining about something. We may not even realize we are doing it but from the time we wake up each day we complain about traffic, bills, work, our boss, our spouse, the house, schedules…etc. Grumbling and complaining is a tough habit to break free from. But if you are serious about becoming a non-grumbler, the first step in combating a complaining attitude is to control what we allow our minds to focus on. This means taking every thought captive. The world is watching to see if what we say we believe is reflected in how we live our lives. Our purpose is to reflect Christ to a world that is desperately searching for a Savior. We have an opportunity with our lives to show the world the difference Christ makes in us through our love, actions, choices, and speech. This world will disappoint us, try to defeat us, and discourage us to no end. But we are not made for this world, so our source of joy is not found here either. When we view our earthly home as what it is – temporary - we are free to hold this world loosely, knowing heaven is coming. Instead of allowing complaints and arguments to waste our time, may we choose to focus our minds on ways to be a light in this world to a generation who desperately needs Jesus.

Question to Think About

What is something practical you can do today to break out of the habit of complaining?