Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 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.
I am sure that I have read this verse dozens of times in the past... but this morning, I really read it.
Well, the Biblical word here for grumbling means "a secret displeasure not openly avowed."
What grumblings do I have? What grumblings do you have?
A body you wish you didn't have?
A life you wish you did have?
A house you wish you had?
A job you wish you didn't have?
This list can go on and on.
I love the end of this verse - among whom you shine as lights in the world.
How am I to be a successful light when I am grumbling all the time?
How am I to spread Christ's saving grace when I am grumbling and disputing?
I am reminded of the classic hymn by What a Friend We Have in Jesus.
What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!Why do we grumble when we have a Friend - a God - a Savior - who longs to take our troubles from us?
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.
Lord, keep me in check day by day so that I do not grumble. Remind me to take those would-be grumblings to YOU in prayer.
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