Day 28 of Your Journey

Complaining: A Big Deal to God

“Nor [let us] complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer” (1 Cor. 10:10 NKJV).


Sometimes we have a tendency to categorize sin in our minds. Some seem greater, like murder, adultery, etc. Others seem lesser in our estimation, like impatience, anger, etc.


There is some truth to this thought. Though all sin separates us from God, the consequences of some sins are greater than others. Jesus Himself said to Pilate that the one who delivered Him up was guilty of a “greater” sin.


One of those sins we seem to take lightly, if we even acknowledge it as sin, is that of complaining. After all, everyone complains about something, right? For some of us, complaining is so much a part of our life that we don’t even notice how much we do it.


God, however, takes complaining seriously. It is telling that in 1 Corinthians 10, He places it in a sobering sequence of sins. This series includes sins like idolatry, sexual immorality, and tempting God. It was considered serious enough that the consequence for the Israelites was that those who complained were “destroyed by the destroyer.”


Why is complaining so serious? Because at its core, it is an accusation against God. Complaining implies that God has not sufficiently provided, or that He is unfair in His dealings with us.


Interestingly, the Israelites’ specific complaint was against their authority (Moses and Aaron). Perhaps we should remember this when we are tempted to complain about our parents, mate, boss, or pastor.


A simple solution? Every time you are tempted to complain about someone or something, stop and thank God for it instead. You’ll be amazed how your outlook will improve.


Making It Personal

Ask someone you trust and love if you complain often. Think of things you’ve complained about, and try praising God for them instead.