“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.” Philippians 2:14-16a
The decision did not make sense to me. “What were these people thinking? They’re leaders; they should start acting like it!”
It was a time in my life when I was not happy with the decisions that were being made around me.
I had a grumbly heart!
In an early morning prayer group someone started to pray about the very situation that was giving me a grumbly heart. As I listened to that prayer, I was so convicted by an attitude of faith and obedience. In that moment, it was as if God gave me a glimpse of what was in my heart. My grumbling was taking me down a path of discontent, irritation, anxiety, and criticism. The prayer of my friend reminded me of another path; a path that would lead to peace beyond human understanding.
Paul, in his letter to the Philippians says,
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
I suddenly realized if I chose a path of prayerful trust instead of grumbling that I would not only experience God’s peace but also a transformation toward becoming a “blameless and pure child of God, shining like a star in the night sky!”
I made a decision. I chose the path to peace.
Father God, thank you for your Spirit’s convicting work in my life. I give you my grumbling and complaining. I long to walk the path of humble prayer in faith and obedience that leads to your perfect peace and transformative work in my life. Amen.
Ask God to reveal to you what’s going on in your heart. Is there grumbling and complaining? Can you trust God to work in and through today’s circumstances for his purposes? If not, invite the Spirit to change your heart.
By Mike Woodard
Used by Permission
FURTHER READING
• Grumpy
• Asking Specifically
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