Mama, Don’t Grumble – Praise!

Do everything without grumbling! Seems pretty hard, right? Yet, it is possible when we walk in God’s Holy Spirit. Let’s look at some key truths we need to grow in.

Focus Verse

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.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky. (Philippians 2:14-15)

Devotion

Mama, I know what it’s like! I grumble when I have a list of things to do. When I have to wash the floor because my kids spilt juice. Or clean the sink because it’s full of toothpaste (again).

I grumble because so much of my work is repetitive, and sometimes I just wish my children would learn! Yet, that is not God’s heart for me. For us as mothers.

He wants us to acknowledge His wonderful gifts with a thankful heart, find contentment in the mundane and repetitive work, and turn to Him in constant praise, because He is worthy of all our adoration.

God desires we become pure and blameless. He desires we fix our thoughts on the things of above, and not live under frustration or pride. Yes, pride!

Often we grumble because deep down we feel entitled to more than we are getting at that moment. We want to be doing great and significant things (not cleaning the toilet again!) or simply resting because we deserve it! (Or so we think.)

This is so contrary to the message of the Gospel, which tells us clearly, the only thing we deserve is punishment for our sins. Yet, God, who is rich in mercy, offers us Heaven!

When we become stunned at God’s beautiful grace, we can let go of our pride, our sense of self-entitlement. And then fully rejoice in Him. Even amid the mundane. When we do, we will shine like stars in a world seeped in darkness.

Questions for Reflection

– Have you noticed yourself grumbling recently?

– Would you like your children to see you rejoice instead of grumble? How can you do that in the moments when you feel tired and frustrated?

Prayer

Jesus, help me by Your Spirit to let go of grumbling. Help me to rejoice in You and be humble in heart, knowing I deserve nothing, but in You I have everything. May I praise You, instead of grumbling. May I be a light to my children, and shine for You, Jesus.