Trials on a Tuesday is a weekly series that focuses on a topic relating to trials, and how we can glorify God in the midst of hard times.
Trials, have a tendency to cause a reaction of complaining in us. For most of us, this is true. So, we have to work toward protecting ourselves from a complaining spirit – especially in the midst of trials. While in a trial, others would be thankful for, I have had to resist the urge to complain.
Complaining About the Journey
Defined as “grumbling with discontent”, complaining often can take up much space in our hearts and minds especially during a time of trial. The hard part is, we can confuse sharing the details of our circumstances with complaining. The key lies within our heart’s contentment. Our hearts’ position becomes the issue, and it greatly affects our walk with Christ. We just, might not realize it… or at least, not at first. Where are our hearts? Understandably aching? Still pursuing the will of God?
When we enter any trial or situation, discontentment can spread like wildfire. This is why we are instructed to be on our guard in 1 Cor. 16:13.
The most crucial evaluation we can do in the midst of a trial is one that checks the position of our hearts. Trials make it so easy to put our walk with Christ aside, and let our old self rise up and begin to dominate in what we say and do. During times of trials, our defenses are down. We will be more tempted and tested than if life is shear goodness where no trial is present.
The Example of David
As David faced trials in his life, he brought them before God and kept his focus on God (see Psalm 119:121-128). It didn’t become an isolated path, where his feelings became louder than the desire to seek after God and His Word. He kept his focus on his Creator, as he poured out his complaints. This is a lesson for all of us, as we learn how to bring our complaints before God, and surrender the end result to Him.
Reflection
- How has your definition and understanding of complaining affected how you handle your trials?
- How can you make it a priority to run to God, His Word, His Church, and spiritually strong in hard times?
Gracefully Overcoming 