“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.” (Philippians 2:14-15)
I heard about a 4-year-old girl who came to the table one evening in a disgruntled mood. She complained loudly about every dish on the table. Hoping to change the mood, her mother suggested that she give the blessing. After a sullen pause, she prayed, “OK, God, I forgive you for this food.”
Let’s be honest — most of us have had a moment like that little girl. Maybe it wasn’t about food, but we’ve all faced situations where we wanted to look up at the heavens and say, “Really, God? This is what you’re giving me?”
Maybe it’s a tough situation at work, an unexpected bill, or just another long Monday. Like that little girl, we may not feel grateful, but we go through the motions, muttering a half-hearted “thanks” while secretly thinking we deserved something better.
The apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 2:14 that we should “do everything without grumbling.” That doesn’t mean we have to pretend that everything is perfect, but it does challenge us to check our attitude. Gratitude isn’t about liking everything that happens — it’s about trusting that God is still working for our good, even when things don’t look the way we would like for them to.
Instead of grumbling, what if we shifted our perspective? What if, instead of seeing what’s “wrong,” we looked for what’s right? Maybe the meal isn’t our favorite, but we’re blessed to have food at all. Maybe the job is stressful, but it’s still providing for our needs. Gratitude doesn’t come naturally, but it’s a habit worth developing.
Prayer:
Lord, forgive me when I grumble instead of being grateful. Help me to see the blessings in my life, even when things don’t go my way. Give me a heart that trusts you in all things, knowing that you are always providing for me. Thank you for your goodness, even when I don’t always recognize it. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Alan Smith
