“Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!” James 5:6 NKJV. Having led groups of people and having counseled a few thousand times, I’ve heard plenty of grumbling. This passage is a clear warning that grumblers are stumblers. Our faith walk is tripped-up, and our potential for good hindered, by allowing grumbling and complaining to pour freely from our lips. While wrongs and poor behaviors must be confronted, we are commanded to in Ephesians 4:15 to “speak the truth in love.” Love corrects, not complains. Godly rebukes, preceded by prayer, and delivered in love are far more effective than grumbling. Gracious Father, purify my heart, cleanse my motives, and help me bathe my actions toward others in the purity of Your love.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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