Lately I have realized that I am a complainer! I complain about the weather, complain about the demands of life, and just complain about far too many things. The other day was one of my least favorite sort of days—cold and rainy. I grumbled every time I had to get in and out of the car. It was a particularly busy day, so the excessive complaints finally caught my attention. It seems I had spent the better part of a day whining. I guess it takes a lot to get my attention, but that day I realized I have a problem. If I am complaining excessively, it means I am focusing on the negatives in life rather than the greatness of my God. I thought about Paul’s command in Philippians 2:14. We are to do everything without grumbling or arguing. That day, I barely did anything without grumbling. Obviously, I was created with the will to choose my attitude, so I realized it needs an adjustment.
Today Lord I will choose to set my mind on things above, and will filter my thoughts through Philippians 4:8. I will not allow my mind to dwell in things that are untrue, dishonorable, unfair, impure, ugly, negative, shameful, or unimportant. Instead I focus on the better part of life—my relationship with You and your goodness. I know You are in control of everything. You allow trying circumstances and even lousy weather to mold my character. Help me to stay aware today, and not to default to my natural tendency to whine and complain. I surrender to You. I choose to praise You now. Amen.
My Child, I stand ready to help you overcome your own nature. I inhabit the praises of my people, so choose to stand in my presence rather than getting tripped up by human emotion. Let my word dwell in you richly, and maintain a heart of gratitude. Whatever you do, do in my name giving thanks to the Father. You cannot just force yourself to stop bad habits; you must replace them with new habits that flow out of a heart of love for Me. My Spirit gives you the ability to do all things, and to be an overcomer in this life. Do not focus on your weakness, but rather on my strength that is best revealed in your weakness. Rely on Me and not yourself. Otherwise, you will stay trapped by your human nature, even though I have given you my divine nature. You are no longer obligated to your sinful nature, so choose abundant life today. Set your mind on things above and you will find yourself soaring above the pitfalls of life.
Psalm 22:3, Col. 3:16-17, Phil. 4:13, 2 Cor. 12:9, 2 Pet. 1:4, John 8:44, Col. 3:2