Refraining from Complaining

Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life--in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. (Philippians 2:14-16)

Earlier in the week a friend sent me an email that discussed the merits of fasting. While we often think of fasting from tangible things--food, television, etc.--this email mentioned fasting from intangibles, such as complaining and worry.

I felt convicted that I engage in complaining too much. (Although I guess even a little complaining is "too much" by God's standards.) It's all too easy for me to let my guard down and get caught up in complaining, particularly when I'm surrounded by other complainers.

So today I am beginning a fast from complaining. Given that I have a lot to do at work--including a meeting today and a publication deadline looming--not to mention that I'll be teaching a bunch of hyperactive four year-olds tonight at church, I'm sure I'll have plenty of opportunities to utter complaints. But I'm going to make a steadfast effort to curb my tongue.

Of course, it's more than simply a matter of keeping my mouth shut. Complaining really starts in the mind, so I need to especially guard my thoughts as I strive to put a lid on the complaining. Instead of dwelling on the situations or people that get under my skin, I will try to focus on reasons to be thankful. It's hard to complain when you're in a thankful frame of mind!

I'll let you know how the fast goes. Of course, I intend to make it a permanent change, not just a one day switcheroo. But one day at a time...

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things. (Philippians 4:8)