The Danger of Grumbling

How much do you grumble?
What are you missing out on because of your complaining?

THIS WEEK’S BOLD STEP DEVOTION

“In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron.” (Exodus 16:2).

Grumbling is a common human tendency that we all struggle with from time to time. Recently, I left what was a powerful worship service at my church to catch a flight for a speaking engagement in another city. I arrived at the airport only to find that my flight had been delayed an hour and a half. I’m embarrassed to admit that my mood quickly changed to one of grumbling, even after experiencing such an uplifting service a few hours earlier.

Some of us have mastered the art of grumbling without even realizing it. They are what I like to call “expert grumblers,” who always find something to criticize or complain about, often unconsciously. Their attention is more focused on what’s going wrong rather than what’s going right. Does that ring a bell for you or someone you know? Before you just point a finger at someone else and move on, think again. How often do you grumble?

If we’re not careful, grumbling can make us miss out on moments of growth or connection with God. When we’re so focused on what’s wrong in our lives, we miss out on noticing the divine appointments or positive change happening in and around us. This kind of discontentment can often cloud our ability to see God at work—which is exactly what plagued the Israelites in Exodus 16.

In just four weeks, they went from newly gained freedom to grumbling, falsely romanticizing their past slavery, saying, “We had it better in Egypt!” Their quick transition from gratitude to grumbling illustrates how even significant changes in our lives can be quickly overshadowed by our complaints if we’re not careful. Dissatisfaction is the breeding ground for grumbling, which leads to a loss of joy and peace.

Maintaining a grateful attitude is a choice that we all have the power to make. It will require a conscious effort on our part, especially during the more challenging times. When our focus is on God and the things He’s blessed us with, we open ourselves up to seeing the good in situations and people, rather than the negative.

Learn to appreciate and find joy in what is, rather than lamenting what isn’t with today's sermon.

Listen to the sermon series: Moving from Grumbling to Gratitude

Part 1Part 2Part 3

Ministry Update from Mark

It’s hard to believe that the holidays are upon us as the month of November ushers in. The food, traditions, sights, and sounds of this time of year are like none other, especially as we anticipate the birth of our Messiah, Jesus, at Christmas. One tradition I especially love is Moody’s annual Candlelight Carols Christmas concert and festival on December 6 and 7.

This year’s event, “Hope Is Born,” will draw our hearts back to the wonder of the nativity and the hope found only in Jesus. You’ll enjoy musical performances by Moody’s student music ensembles and theatrical presentations from our drama team, with scenes from the life and sermons of the great 19th-century British preacher, Charles H. Spurgeon. Come before or stay after each concert to experience our Christmas market, Festival of Arts, food trucks, plus an interactive Christmas experience for the kids.

We encourage you to mark your calendars and buy your tickets for this special event! Learn more at candlelightcarols.com.