Numbers 20:3-5 says, “The people quarreled with Moses and said, if only we had perished when our brothers perished before the Lord. Why have you brought the Lord’s assembly into this wilderness for us and our livestock to die here? Why have you led us up from Egypt to bring us to this evil place? It’s not a place of grain, figs, vines, and pomegranates, and there is no water to drink!’ (HCSB)” The children of Israel had a tendency to complain when things did not go their way. Instead of being thankful for their deliverance from Egypt, they griped and complained when their stomachs were not full. All they wanted was to have personal satisfaction. Unfortunately, there are many Christians today who have a complaining spirit. When their stomachs are not full with their selfish desires, they will turn on others and make their complaint known. Sometimes, a complaining spirit can grip the church. When this happens, the life of the church is smothered out. It quenches the Spirit and hinders the work of the Lord in and through the church. Satan loves to prey on our minds and cause us to get stirred up over frivolous things. He specializes in causing believers in the church to become dissatisfied. When this happens, he robs us of our joy and distracts us from our purpose and vision. Do not allow Satan to plant in you a complaining spirit. Cast that complaining spirit off in the Name of Jesus. When fighting against a complaining spirit, here are a few pointers that may be helpful to you:
- In everything, give thanks and give God all the glory.
- Maintain a positive outlook.
- When you have a complaint: Pray and don’t Pout.
- Learn when to speak and when to stay silent. When in doubt, stay silent.
- Pray for your pastor that he would have wisdom in leading the church.
- Be an agent of change and not an agent of discord.
- If you are not willing to fix it, then zip it.
Written by Pastor Chris Noland
Chris Noland serves as the pastor of First Baptist Church of Decherd Tennessee. He has a B.A. in Biblical Studies and Youth Ministry from Piedmont International University along with an M.A. in Theology from Tyndale Seminary. His wife (Marsha) and three children (Emma, Eban, and Ella) are a wonderful blessing to everyone. Pastor Chris also serves on the board of directors for the Maine Ministry Outreach Centre ,which is a ministry to help local churches with ministry to youth in the state of Maine. He is also available for revival, conferences, and church training seminars.He can be reached through www.facebook.com/chris.noland
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