All Things Without Complaining

As we wrap up Philippians, I have to admit that I’ve struggled this week. I’m on the reopening team for my small school district. The majority of our staff and community seem to be in favor of reopening with common sense, practical safety precautions in place while also giving the option for online learning to those families who choose it. We had started to meet and make those plans when another announcement came out from our governor, so we are still attempting to plan while waiting to hear more information.

I have complained. I have murmured. I have been frustrated. I have been angry. I have been annoyed. I have been discouraged.

I have also prayed. I have also read and studied my Bible. I have attempted to figure out how I respond to this uncertain situation with the right heart and attitude while continuing to represent the Lord as I should.

Of course, the Lord knew that I needed to be reading Philippians this week. I’ve been thinking all week that Paul was in prison when he wrote so many verses about rejoicing in the Lord. I found myself spiritually “tripping” over Philippians 2:14 all week, “Do all things without murmurings and disputings:” I suppose the more accurate term would be convicted. I was convicted.

As I focused in on that verse, I noticed the verses around it beginning in verse 12 – 16. Verse 12 says, “…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” This does not mean we work for salvation (we are saved by grace – Ephesians 2:8-9). It is referring to how we live out our faith, our testimony to those around us.

Then we see that right after the command to do things without murmurings and disputings (complaining and arguing) in verse 15, “That ye my be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.”

As I considered the whole passage, the Lord showed me that “murmuring and disptuing” were directly tied to my testimony. When I allow myself to complain, I sound just like everyone else. I am not blameless and harmless. I am not without rebuke. Complaining and arguing is our natural, fleshly tendency. If I want to shine as a light to the world–in the midst of this very crooked and perverse nation–I have to be different.

It is not easy. And I certainly do not have it figured it out. As you might imagine, I have strong opinions about the whole thing…but I don’t want that to be my excuse to complain and argue. In fact, I would ask that you pray for me–and anyone else that you know who is currently navigating this same situation.