Do all things without grumbling or questioning. – Philippians 2:14
It would seem pretty obvious that this type of interaction really does more harm than good. The words themselves have an ominous sound if you vocalize them: grumbling, questioning, murmuring, disputing, quarreling. All are part of an array of words used in the New Testament to describe the dimensions of contention.
You can grumble quietly, or you can be very vocal in your argument. In the Garden of Eden, Eve actually disputed, or questioned, God’s rules in a quiet manner. The results were disastrous. The murmurings and grumbling of the Israelites in the wilderness, and the disobedience that enveloped them, caused them grief and tragic consequences.
The apostle Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians to encourage them to live their lives in humility and obedience rather than reflecting the rebelliousness of the Israelites. In their everyday life, they were called upon to carry out their duties with cheerfulness and integrity, providing an example of the love of Christ to the world around them.
And so it is for you today. Instead of murmuring about your situation, or arguing with someone over differences, go to the Lord and consult with Him. Let peace and love rule in your heart. Disagreements may arise in your interaction with others, but you, as a child of God, are called upon to respond with unselfishness and grace.
Let the Savior’s example spur you to right living with a humble and obedient attitude. Then, lift your prayers to the Lord for the people of this nation to know the peace of Jesus and work in unity. Intercede for this country’s governing officials that they would focus on more peaceable and constructive conversations, and seek God’s guidance in their decisions.
Today’s Verse: Philippians 2:14
Do all things without grumbling or disputing,
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Philippians 2:1-4, 14-18
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others..
14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 17 Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
