No Grumbling Allowed

Scripture: 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. Philippians 2:14-15

Observation: As Paul continues to encourage the church in Philippi about how to act in lieu of his imprisonment in Rome likely never to return to them, he give this ... do everything without grumbling or arguing. It is in this attitude - an attitude that does its daily work and service without ever speaking negatively about it or each other - that creates the environment for them to be "blameless and pure." It is even this attitude that makes them without fault. Paul seems to be going so far as to say that a cheerful attitude of service is the true sign of children of God, true believers, and evidence of faith.

Application: As I have reminded myself more and more to "set my mind on things above", I have found those thoughts get interrupted by negative thoughts. I almost never have positive thoughts that prevent my focus on God. Instead, it is negative thoughts of anger, frustration, sadness, conflict, and general pain that keep me from God.

Paul understands this aspect of human nature ... complaining, grumbling, and arguing are things that separate us from God. They interfere with love, peace, and joy. And in this way, avoiding these negative ways unites us with God in mind and heart.

As I strive to continue getting closer to God so I may server him better and more fully every day, I must also avoid grumbling and arguing. I must be a joyful peacemaker, not a confrontational curmudgeon. This is a changing of my mind and my heart that only the Spirit can achieve within me, and I continue to lean into that change.

Prayer: Lord, I repeat my prayer today to please create in me a new heart. I seek a soft heart, filled with your Spirit, and exuding your gifts. I continue to surrender my mind to you so I can be your light wherever I am every day. I hope I have the chance to be that light somewhere, soon. Amen.