23/05/2013 - COMPLAINING IN THEIR TENTS

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But complained in their tents, and did not heed the voice of the LORD.

Psalm 106:25

There is a serious bad habit most Christians have succumbed to: complaining. In fact, there are few people who do not indulge in it. However, regardless of your possessions, what people talk about you and whether your prayers are answered the way you would like them to be, make sure you learn to live happily with what the Lord allows you to have and, in any situation, do not complain. Beware, for God examines your heart (Psalm 26:2)!

In the past, the Israelites committed a horrible sin in their tents: they complained – not only in public but also in the comfort of their homes – albeit temporary, because they lived in tents. Today, many have done the same in their homes and in front of their family. As a result, they do not have a firm and strong faith and cannot cope or overcome challenges.

There are people who murmur. Apparently, they are always happy and smiling, thinking that in this way they convince others that everything is fine with them. However, they forget that those who are of God and walk in the Spirit are able to notice hidden sins. The grumblers always have a heavy countenance, they are sad and their gaze conveys no confidence.

The Most High is everywhere and knows everything that happens. At every split of a second, He sees what is happening to people everywhere (Job 34:21). Consider, for example, what happens with thousands of leaves that fall from the trees around the world at every moment. The Lord knows exactly where they fall, what size they are, their weight, color and species; after all, nothing, no matter how small, escapes His sight.

Be careful not to be found as a grumbler because it will take you away from the divine protection. The Israelites provoked the Lord to anger with this behavior. Today those who complain – even if only in their tent, which is their heart – will not go unpunished. Always be thankful to God for what you have, for the faith He has given you and for all He wants to do for your benefit. Be pleasant to the Lord in all things.

The right thing to do is to heed what the Almighty speaks to your heart because in this way the divine plan will be accomplished in your life. When you obey an order, albeit simple, you put God’s power working in your favor. Do not let complaint dominate you but allow the Lord to rejoice in you.

It does not matter whether what God has revealed to you is something big, serious and apparently difficult to achieve. When He gives you a mission, He has already prepared you and given you the means to do the task. Believe, move forward and do not look at the size of the challenge, but rather at the reward. God is faithful to fulfill what He promised (Numbers 23:19).

In Christ with Love,

R. R. Soares