Bella Vista Church of Christ
LIFELINES
March 21, 2001 Charles Cash
The Full-Time Grumbling Business
“Do all things without murmurings and disputings.” Philippians 2.14.
Nothing is easier than grumbling; no talent, no self-denial, no brains are required to set up in the grumbling business.
Some grumbling is helpful and healthy; it may lead to correction, improvement and change. It may be simply a direct way of “letting off steam,” of reducing tension and frustration. But going into the grumbling business is offensive and inexcusable.
Franklin said, “constant complaint is the poorest sort of pay for all the comforts we enjoy.” Don’t grumble because you don’t have what you want; be thankful you don’t get what you deserve. God has been so good to us, but as Jonathan Swift once put it, “Complaint is the largest tribute Heaven receives.” Don’t grumble because God placed thorns among roses, but rather thank God because He placed roses among thorns.
Are you in the grumbling business? Go over the events of yesterday. What did you have to say that was hopeful, pleasant, fresh, original? What advice did you give? Was it negative, depressing, pessimistic? If so, you may be in the grumbling business. Check your sense of humor. What makes you laugh? Check your sense of sympathy. What makes you cry? Do you have compassion for others?
Everybody grumbles now and then; but if you are in the full-time grumbling business, take inventory, and find out why. Chances are you don’t belong there. Close up shop and try another way.
CHARLES CASH
Siloam Springs, Ark.
