Missions
Impossible of Scripture-
DO EVERYTHING WITHOUT COMPLAINING
Do everything without complaining or arguing. That's what Paul wrote to
the Philippians (Philippians 2:14). Does that seem like mission impossible
to you?
Maybe the Apostle Paul just doesn't understand that complaining is the
modern way! Why, without complaining what would we talk about at work,
on breaks, with our friends? But when Paul uses the word "everything,"
he just doesn't give us much room to maneuver, does he?
Think with me: When was the last time you complained about something?
Last week, yesterday, ten minutes ago? Often we just have no idea how
much we complain. Here's a challenge for you: See if you can make it through
one entire day–like today–without complaining about anything.
That includes the weather, the job, the company, the boss, the customers,
your children, your car–everything.
If you will take that challenge, it will show you just how often you complain
and don't even realize it. Complaining is not something we plan to do,
it just happens. But doing everything without complaining or arguing is
something we must plan to do. It won't just happen. You've got to pray
it into your life daily, and then be very conscious and aware of it all
day long. If you tend to be a complainer, it's a bad habit and it won't
break easily. You'll have to work at it.
Complaining is contagious; if you complain, you cause others to do the
same. The cure for this disease is thankfulness. We're told in Colossians
3 to put on thankfulness, and if you're wearing thankfulness each day,
you won't be a complainer. When you feel like complaining, start reciting
what you have to be thankful for. It will cure your complaining spirit
quickly.
So, here's our mission impossible today: Whatever you're doing, do it
without complaining. Wow, what a difference others will see in us if we
allow God to work this miracle through us. Though it is mission impossible
humanly speaking, the life of Christ within us makes it a possibility
for those who are born from above.
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