In Philippians 2:14, the apostle Paul wrote, “Do all things without complaining and disputing”, in order to become “children of God without fault” (15). So, this admonition is appropriate and needed for all of us.
The word “complaining” comes from the Greek (gongusmos). It (in both its noun and verb form) is found only 5 times in the New Testament. The NKJV translates the term complaining, murmuring, complaint, complaining, and in 1 Peter 4:9, grumbling. The entire text of 1 Peter 4:9 reads, “Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.”
The passages reveal clearly that a man’s heart is just as important as rote obedience. This is a truth that is found throughout scripture. For example, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart” (Deuteronomy 6:5-6).
Grumbling is an affront to God. When we consider the great sacrifice He made in sending His Son to die on the cross for our sins, the debt we owe to Him is one we should accept willingly, not grudgingly.
God expects His children to not only do His bidding without question, but with eagerness and delight! Think about it!
