By

Shelby G. Floyd

Scripture says that the things that happened during the Old Testament economy were examples for God’s people today. “Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did” (1 Corinthians 10:6). Then the author gave an example of conduct that displeased God and which he punished severely: “And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel” (1 Corinthians 10:10). This is a reference to the grumbling of the Israelites against Moses and Aaron. On this occasion 14,700 people died from the plague (Numbers 16:41, 49).

Do Everything without Arguing

In the New Testament, we have the same warning given concerning the sin of complaining:

“Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing” (Philippians 2:14-16).

Examples of Grumbling

We have many examples of people murmuring, complaining and grumbling during the life of Christ and the apostles. Some complained because a lady showed her love for Christ in an extravagant way. “Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, ‘Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.’ And they rebuked her harshly.” (Mark 14:3-9). Others complained because they felt like they were unfairly treated. (Matthew 20:1-12). Still there were some who grumbled that Jesus did not associate with the right people, even though he came to call sinners to repentance (Luke 5:27-32).

Complaining is Discouraging to Others

Complaining becomes a habit and is discouraging to those who are trying to serve the Lord. Let each of us be a positive influence for Christ by being an encourager of others. “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.” Let us shine like stars!

Copyright © 2015 Shelby Floyd All Rights Reserved

Shelby G. Floyd
Heartland Church of Christ
1693 West Main Street
Greenwood, Indiana 46142