Quit Yer Complainin'

The other morning as I was getting ready for school, I was listening to the Desperation podcast, and the speaker mentioned Acts 13:36a, which says that “David had served God's purpose for him in his generation.” So I was like “Wow, okay, I need to serve God's purpose for me in my generation.” So I said, “Show me Your ways, LORD, teach me your paths! Please, Father, show me how to serve!” and in that moment God seemed to be saying “I already did: My Son.” So I thought, “Okay…Jesus…” and I went to Isaiah 53, where I know Jesus described best.
So I read about all these awful ways He was scourged (pronounced "skerged"; it means kind of beaten up viciously), then in verse 7 it says "He was opposed and He was afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth." I cross-referenced and found some other verses that said "But Jesus kept silent." (Matthew 26:63a) "And He did not answer him with regard to a single charge, so [Pilate] was quite amazed." (Matthew 27:14) Jesus had an awesome trait, very rarely round in people of that time and especially today: silence. Even Pilate, who had seen everything since he was governor and all, was amazed. Jesus wasn't complaining or grumbling about the excruciating pain or injustice. He was silent, like a lamb led to the slaughter (also in Isaiah 53.) The world notices silence. Yes, actions speak louder than words, but sometimes the lack of words speaks louder than words as well. Philippians 2:15 says we'll shine like stars in this crooked and depraved generation.

I tend to complain a lot, about things a lot less painful than scourgings or dying for someone else. I complain that I owe Mom 12 bucks for something that I thought she should buy. I complain that I’ve had 5 tests this week. I complain that I'm lonely (which isn't even true. I am so blessed.) I complain about my mac 'n' cheese being cooked too long or my water smelling fishy. Was I spat upon? Were my clothes gambled for? Um, no. Not even close. I think I finally see a perfect example of "do everything without complaining or grumbling" (Philippians 2:14): Jesus, who came to the world as the Ultimate Example for us.

So in this season of exams and stress, I challenge you: do not complain. (And hold me accountable! If a not-necessary word even creeps upon my tongue, slap me upside da head.) Complaining has a domino effect; if you bring out the bad in something, not only will people join in on the negativity, but they’ll also dwell on it! There’s a big drama going on at my school right now, and everyone’s vicious words are ripping some reputations to shreds and it breaks my heart to see it. Truly, friends, God is so much bigger. Cast your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you! (1 Peter 5:7)

Be like Jesus. Don’t complain. I dare you.