Genni the wonder dog and I have a night time ritual. She sleeps beside
my bed on her own pillow and blanket, (but she isn't spoiled) and she waits
patiently for me to get into bed. Then she gives me a good night kiss and
lies down beside me and "allows me" to pet her.
If I don't pet her long enough, she has a peculiar little whine that
she makes to tell me to keep on petting. If I have been away a lot during the
day, she wants extra petting for reassurance at bedtime. That often means a
lot of extra petting time if I want to get any sleep. I wonder who trained
whom when that happens.
Last night we went out before supper and didn't get back until
midnight. She was in need of her night time reassurance but she was also
miffed because she didn't get to go. She tucked me in as usual and got a
little petting. When I stopped she moved to the center of the room and began
to chew on her rawhide bone.
She also began her little pet me some more whine. I called her over but
she ignored me. She whined again and she came closer but still stayed out of
the reach of my arm. She was making it very clear that her feelings were hurt
and she was going to deny me the "pleasure" of bringing her comfort. She
simply wanted to complain about the situation, she didn't want to change it.
I was struck by the realization that I sometimes treat God in the same
way. He is there ready to comfort and help but we would rather complain than
allow Him to work.
Complaining is a plague in our lives and in the church.
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. But even if I am
being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming
from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should
be glad and rejoice with me. Philippians 2:14-18 NIV
What's happening in your life that you're complaining out? Where are
you whining instead of seeking contentment? As children of God, we have the
one thing that should make us content is all circumstances, we belong to Him
forever.
Paul wrote to the young church at Philippi
I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you
have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you
had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need,
for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it
is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the
secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or
hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through
him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:10-13 NIV
He understood that children of God are called to contentment and
complacency, not whining and complaining.
Until next time, may you give it all to God and give up the
complaining.
Be blessed
Hallelu Yah (Praise God)!
Kevin
