“Do everything without complaining or arguing … in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.” Philippians 2:14-15

God hates it when we gripe. There are several incidents in Numbers where the Israelites griped and the outcomes weren’t good (Numbers 16:41; 21:5-6). When we complain we’re saying, God isn’t looking after me the way he should, that he is keeping good things from me or he doesn’t know what’s best for me. When we complain we are saying that God is not good.

The truth is that God has given us so much. He has given us love, peace, joy, eternal life, hope, grace, mercy even his own Son. But when we complain we’re saying this isn’t enough, we want more.

It’s natural to complain. Rich people, poor people, and everyone in between complains about something. Whether it’s the weather, the political leadership, or the makeup of the Australian cricket team! We can always find something that displeases us. Furthermore, complaining isn’t related to how much money, power or intelligence we have. It’s about our attitude towards our circumstances. As Christians, our attitude is to be one of trust. Knowing whatever our circumstances God is in control and we accept whatever happens as coming from his hand.

This verse also gives us another compelling reason not to complain. It tells us if we don’t complain or argue it will be obvious to those around us that we are Christians. We will stand out like stars against a black night sky. Isn’t it remarkable to think that we can have such a big impact by simply not complaining?