Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
OUCH! My bible studies took me to this passage this week and I got stuck. Not only was I stuck, I was stunned and convicted, AND downright depressed! Do I do ALL things, every single thing without complaint? Ummmm, no. When the office is crazy and everyone is not quite getting along and big changes are coming down the pike, do I resist complaining? Not usually. (I advert my eyes from you). When I get home from a long day and the kids have MORE paperwork for me to look at that is due like yesterday, do I hold back the grumbles? Rarely. (I hang my head a little lower.) To top it off, when I see those gas prices go up another four cents, do I bite my tongue? Not a chance! (I am about on my belly now!)
Oh, Lord, what are you going to do with me? I wrote a few days ago about Miss Audrey, the sweetest lady I have ever known. Now, I am sure she wasn't perfect, but she was very close, and I never saw her complain. I admit, after spending time with her I would come home ready to turn over another leaf. "I will not complain. I will not complain. I will not complain." (I clicked my heals as I spoke!) Not surprisingly this didn't work. The pressure eventually turns up and I blow. Not the obvious, angry, scene-stealing blow; just the cranky, headachey, run of the mill type.
So if I can't control myself, and God clearly tells us in His word, that we are not to be whiners. Why? Because we are to be the lights to show people Jesus. Who would want what we have if we are miserable? See what His point is? Yes, ouch.
This is where the sweet Holy Spirit comes in reminding us that God's grace is enough. He loves us, and has given us everything we need. ASK for His help to change, and He will give all you need. Matthew 19:26 tells us, Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
What a relief! If I pay attention and ask God for His help, He will do the impossible in me, and enable me to do His word. What could be better than that?
2 comments:
Ouch, here, too! I recently had an "eye opening" experience and realized that I have a wonderful life and I need to stop feeling sorry for myself, stop the pity party, stop complaining, etc.
Help me too Lord! I'm so glad I stopped by Bonnie... I needed this verse too. But especially "with God all things are possible." That verse has "turned" my faith to really faithing. Really believing.
And I know "today" I was meant to be here. I'm so happy to be your facebook bud Bonnie. I know God purposed us to meet.
Hope your having a great weekend.
God bless you dear Bonnie!
Lea
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