Complaining Faithfully: How to Express Honest Concerns without Grumbling

How to Complain Without Grumbling

Complaining can often be seen as a negative thing, but it doesn't have to be. There is a way to complain in a faithful manner and a way to complain in an unfaithful manner. The Bible refers to the unfaithful way of complaining as "grumbling," and it is warned against (Numbers 14:26-30; John 6:43; Philippians 2:14; James 5:9). Grumbling complaints accuse God of not being good, faithful, loving, wise, powerful, or competent enough to run the universe effectively. Faithless complaining is sinful because it accuses God of doing wrong.

Faithful Complaining

Faithful complaining, on the other hand, is an honest and groaning expression of what it is like to experience the trouble, anguish, and grief of living in this fallen world (Romans 8:20-23). Faithful complaining does not impugn God with wrong, but acknowledges the suffering and hardship that comes with living in a fallen world. In fact, God encourages this kind of complaining, and teaches us how to do it in the Bible.

One example of faithful complaining in the Bible is found in the book of Job. Job suffered immense loss and pain, and he complained to God about it. However, he did not accuse God of wrongdoing, but instead acknowledged God's sovereignty and asked for answers. Job's faithful complaining led him to a deeper understanding of God's character and ultimately a restoration of his life.

How to Complain Faithfully

So how do we complain in a faithful manner without grumbling? Here are some tips:

1. Be Honest

It's important to be honest about how we feel and what we are experiencing. God wants us to come to him with our honest emotions and feelings, even if they are negative. David, in the Psalms, often complained to God about his situations, but always ended with a declaration of trust in God's goodness and faithfulness.

2. Acknowledge God's Sovereignty

When we complain, it's easy to forget that God is in control and that he has a plan for our lives. It's important to acknowledge God's sovereignty and trust that he is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

3. Ask for Help

When we are struggling, it's okay to ask for help. We can ask God for help and also seek out the help of others. James 5:13-16 encourages us to confess our faults to one another and to pray for one another.

4. Focus on Gratitude

Even in the midst of difficult circumstances, there is always something to be thankful for. Focusing on gratitude can help shift our perspective and remind us of God's goodness. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to present our requests to God with thanksgiving.

5. Trust in God's Character

When we complain, we are essentially questioning God's character and his ability to handle our situations. It's important to trust in God's character and know that he is good, faithful, and loving. Psalm 136 is a great example of a psalm that focuses on God's character and his steadfast love.

In Conclusion

Complaining doesn't have to be a negative thing. There is a way to complain in a faithful manner without grumbling. By being honest, acknowledging God's sovereignty, asking for help, focusing on gratitude, and trusting in God's character, we can bring our complaints to God in a way that honors him and leads to a deeper understanding of his goodness and faithfulness.

So the next time you feel the need to complain, remember to do it in a way that is faithful and honors God. He is always there to listen and help us through our struggles.