There’s no shortage of situations that may cause us to become frustrated. Why do we find it easier to complain about our predicament rather than to rectify the situation? One reason is because we choose not to take responsibility for our emotions. We find it easier to complain about our circumstances rather than go through the work of changing our attitude. The Apostle Paul had his share of difficulties, but his advice reveals how he was able to transcend his circumstances:

Do all things without grumbling or disputing; (Philippians 2:14)

This is a present tense imperative implying an ongoing action. The little word all has big implications. We may find that we can do many things without grumbling or disputing, but maintaining our equanimity in all things requires supernatural strength. Do we realize that our complaining not only doubts God’s sovereignty, but it also discredits our testimony? When we grumble about our circumstances, we are saying, “If I were God, I would do things differently.”

Where is your focus? When you focus on your problems, you can become discouraged and that can lead to complaining. When you focus on God, then you gain a new perspective. Although Paul was writing from a prison cell, his letter was filled with joy and contentment:

Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. (Philippians 4:11)

We must understand that grumbling doesn’t help the situation. Mark Twain said, “Don’t complain and talk about all your problems – 80 percent of people don’t care; the other 20 percent will think you deserve them.” Paul revealed why we should not grumble in the next verse:

so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, (Philippians 2:15)

The word blameless means irreproachable, without defect, and describes that which is faultless. Paul referred to Christians as children of God and, as His children, we are to reflect our true identity as children of light. God enables us to maintain our identity even in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. Throughout the years people have tended to go to extremes – some seeking total separation from the world, whereas others have total immersion in the world and they lose their influence as salt and light. Paul enjoins us to be in the world, but not inured to the world.

When we live as children of God, the world takes notice. We appear as lights in the midst of a dark world. We must realize that it is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness. Paul’s teaching reflected the words of Jesus:

Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

RickAssociate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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