Few actions reveal what is in our hearts more vividly than our responses to life’s challenges. One such response, often underestimated in its destructive power, is complaining. While it may seem like a minor venting of frustration, the Bible illuminates a far more serious spiritual consequence tied to this behavior. In the scriptures, complaining is not merely frowned upon; it is equated with profound acts of rebellion and ingratitude toward God’s sovereignty. We need to recognize its true nature and spiritual implications.
1 Corinthians 10:6-11 Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. 7 And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” 8 Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell; 9 nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; 10 nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer. 11 Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.
Notice that complaining is comparable to lust, idolatry, and sexual immorality. In verse 9 the Israelites tempted Christ and were destroyed by serpents. (Numbers 21:6) The temptation was their complaining about the manna that God provided daily, which He gave them to begin with because of their complaining. (Exodus 16:8)
In verse 10 we see that some were destroyed by the destroyer for their complaining. Complaining is an abomination to the Lord.
Complaining communicates to the Lord, “I don’t like what You are doing and how You are doing it, and if I were you, I would do it differently.” Complaining is insubordination against the Lord’s authority. It is irreverent and shows we are faithless and not living in the fear of the Lord. Consider what Philippians 2 says.
Philippians 2:14-15 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 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,
Complaining is a dead giveaway that it’s all about us. What we want, what we think, what we feel, what we believe, our rights, and our opinions. Grumbling and complaining means that we are self-seeking and this leads to bitterness.
“The smallest and most dangerous world we can live in is the one we are the center of.”
James 3:14-16 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.
This passage tells us that complaining is demonic and produces confusion and every evil work. Grumbling and complaining make us a landing pad for demonic activity.
The Bible provides a clear and stern warning against the act of complaining. It is not merely a harmless habit but a profound expression of ingratitude, unbelief, and rebellion against God’s sovereign will. We must eliminate it from our lives. We can do this by abiding in the scriptures, renewing our minds to God’s word, and cultivating a spirit of thankfulness and humility.
Complaining is far more detrimental than it may initially seem. It is defiance against God’s provision and authority, stemming from a heart of ingratitude and self-centeredness.
Complaining is a cancer in the body of Christ. It always has been. It is contagious, infectious, and deadly. Unfortunately, it has become commonplace in our culture and the world is full of self-righteous, self-important, self-seeking, entitled people who grumble and complain constantly. From such people turn away.
James 5:9 Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!
JESUS IS COMING!
Thank you for visiting Truth Pressure Ministries. Please share and help reach more people with the truth.
Truth Pressure Ministries 