Way back in 1996 in 6th grade my teacher (or one of them) told everyone in class about his favorite book of the bible, or at least the one that gave him great encouragement. This book is Philippians. While I certainly saw the wisdom in this book back then, it never really sunk in until much later, probably as late as college. However, this book is, more and more, becoming one of my favorites as time goes on. It is amazing what you remember from your past and sometimes a comment, reading, teaching, etc. that seems minor or simply an add-on becomes memorable. The passage (or couple verses) that as been speaking to me recently is Philippians 2: 14-16.
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.
What particularly stands out for me is the first line, "Do everything with complaining or arguing." I struggle with the arguing part because it seems like not arguing at all would mean you are rolling over and giving in to any all demands to avoid conflict. This may often work but eventually you will run across a situation where you can't (or shouldn't give in), however, I do believe there is a difference between arguing and standing on principles. In 2nd Timothy 2: 23 Paul continues on this topic writing:
Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.
I believe what Paul is saying in these two passages is that arguments are a waste of time and should be avoided, however, there are issues and situations that require confrontation.
While avoiding stupid and foolish arguments is certainly something I want to improve on, complaining is the area I need to work on more. While I believe I don't annoy anyone by complaining a lot, I know I have a tendency to complain, whether it be to someone, to myself, or merely silently, within myself. Jesus says in Matthew 6:27:
Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
True, this passage is about worry, but doesn't the same consequences apply to complaining? Doesn't complaining include worry as well? I cannot add a single hour, or even second, to my life by worrying or complaining so why do I do it? All it does is waste time and hamper productivity. I want to change this. I want to go through life without complaining about anything. If you see me please ask me, and hold me accountable, to this goal! Instead of complaining, I want to skip immediately to finding the solution(s) or simply let it go, when in a situation that I cannot control (i.e. other drivers, etc.). I encourage others to take on this goal as well. When you are not dwelling on the negativity of complaints it is a truly refreshing way to go through life.
Good Luck!
