Five Steps to Overcome Complaining
While under the watchful eye of a Roman guard under house arrest, Paul issues a powerful command to the Christians in Philippi. Despite his circumstances, Paul encourages the Christians to look beyond their current status and focus on the things to come. Notice the words of Paul to the Philippians:
“Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.” (Philippians 2.14; ESV)
Paul’s purpose in encouraging the Christians to overcome a complaining attitude is founded on the basis that Christians are lights in the world and we are overcoming the world each day. Paul understands that our influence in the world is a powerful expression of our faith. Jesus, himself, said that His followers are lights in the world (Matthew 5.14-16)
The list below contains five steps to assist you in overcoming a complaining attitude. Feel free to comment and expound upon this list if you wish.
Five Steps to Overcome Complaining
5 – Realize
- Realize that God has a plan. Just as you and I plan each day, week, month or maybe year, God has a plan for our lives but it takes realization on our part. As Christians, we need to realize that God’s plan is much greater than ours because He is greater than us (Isaiah 55.8-9).
- In this realization, we must also remember that God will allow all things to work for good to those that love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8.28).
4 – Response not React
When trouble arises, do not react to the situation, but consider what is the overall problem and then respond to the issue at hand. Many bad decisions are made because someone reacts to a situation instead of responding with the wisdom gained through previous experience.- This step builds on the previous step of our realization that God is in control.
3 – Rethink
- Instead of thinking of everything in the normal worldly way, rethink how you view your life. Example: instead of seeing bills as a constant complaint, be thankful you have the resources to pay them. (If you do not have the resources to pay them, rethink the way you are spending money.)
- Take time to rethink your life from heaven’s eyes. Consider the prodigal son of Luke 15, as he returned home, he saw his life one way and the Father saw it another. Begin viewing your life (and others) through Heaven’s eyes.
2 – Relax
- Take some time to R.E.L.A.X. A post written in January will help to share these values. Read the previous post by clicking here –> R. E. L. A. X.
1 – Recognize Prayer
- Communicate! A great part of overcoming a complaining spirit is your communication with God. It is not enough just to believe in God (James 2.17-19), there needs to be actions pertaining to your belief. A major action in your belief needs to be your communication with God.
- Spend time communicating with God and spend time improving that communication. Share with God your troubles, stresses and problems and let Him handle all of your needs, because he cares for you and wants you to overcome (1 Peter 5.7).
Overcoming a complaining attitude will not happen in one day or even a week, there needs to be progress made each day. The progress you make should be towards God not towards ourselves.
Just some thoughts,
Chris
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