How easy it is to forget how good or pleasant life really is when our present circumstances pose challenges to us. Complaining is so easy! What's the alternative to complaining? Gratitude! I remember a time when I was challenged not to complain for a whole week... then it turned into one month. When complaining comes naturally and you are among people who are "with you" in complaining, such a challenge can seem impossible. To be honest, it was a real struggle in the beginning because I often saw more of what was wrong (or absent) than appreciating what was right (or present). Complaining also comes from a critical spirit and that's not a positive attribute one should have or cultivate to be successful. How easy is it for you not to complain? Even about the smallest (insignificant) things...?
During the first few days of the "no complaining" week, I decided to invite other people to join me in not complaining--they also confessed that it was a quite a challenge. When you encourage others not to complain, you will notice that even your conversations become richer because your mind and heart is not focused on the negative but positive aspects of your situation, circumstances, environment, etc. I am glad I got through my week of not complaining (even about the weather) and decided to continue for a whole month. Intentionally not complaining was a life changing experience! Would you challenge yourself not to complain for a whole day, week or month? Try it :)
The Word of God admonishes us: "Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world," (Philippians 2:14-15) I fell off the band wagon of not complaining... so I am getting back on. Thankfully, because of grace, while it is not easy, it is possible and definitely worth it. "For a righteous man may fall seven times And rise again, But the wicked shall fall by calamity." (Proverbs 24:16) You may fall short (and complain) but you just need to get back up the next day and stop complaining :). I started back on the "no complaining" band wagon and still working on perfecting it. I want a life transformation. What about you?
What would your life be like if you completely eliminated complaining? If there is something you are burning inside to complain about, why not do something about it instead of complaining? Today... jump on the band wagon of "NOT COMPLAINING" and see how it goes!
