Overcoming a Complaining Heart | Al Williford

Gratitude vs Complaining

I. Complaining Offends God

• God's anger is aroused when people complain.
• Old Testament people complained despite God's provision after delivering them from slavery.
• Complaining led to the Jews wandering in the desert for 40 years.
• Complaining takes away joy.

II. The Root of Complaining: Self

• Complaining is often rooted in wanting change and feeling frustrated when it doesn't happen.
• It can stem from a lack of humility and a sense of entitlement.

III. Complaining Hurts Witness

• Complaining can make Christians look weak.
• Others may doubt God's blessing.

IV. Overcoming Complaining

• Cultivate gratitude by giving thanks.
• Remember examples such as David, Paul, and Silas.
• Shift focus to God's sovereignty and trust in Him.
• God works for the good of those who love Him.
• Replace complaining with gratitude.
• Practice Lament.

V. Learn to Lament

• Lamenting is expressing sorrow to God.
• It involves coming to God with a humble heart.

VI. Practical Ways to Encourage Others and Be Thankful

• Offer a kind word or prayer.
• Practice gratitude daily.
• Ask God to help see blessings.

VII. The Importance of Attitude

• Shift thinking to change attitude.
• Avoid being a grumpy person.

VIII. Is it Wrong to Complain?

• Complaining to God (lamenting) is biblical.
• Avoid complaining to others.

IX. Challenge

• Try to go 30 days without complaining
• Journal about the good things and blessings in life for a week.
• Encourage others instead of complaining

X. Scripture References

Philippians 2:14-15, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Numbers 11:1, Exodus 16:8, James 5:9, Proverbs 17:22, Ephesians 4:29, Colossians 3:17, Lamentations 3:22-23, Job 1:21, Romans 8:28