Murmuring!

We may know it by griping, grumbling, whining or bellyaching. In the original language of the Bible, it is called "Murmuring." Regardless of what we call it, complaining and murmuring constantly have the same symptoms. The dictionary defines it as "an expression of unhappiness, dissatisfaction, or discontent."

Murmuring is an outward expression of discontent from within. Examples of murmuring can be found in the Old Testament, where the Children of Israel complained about their circumstances, the food, and even at their leader Moses. In the Bible, God was very displeased because they weren't thankful for what He had provided them.

A few people out there today in churches murmur about everything that happens in the church. I believe God is displeased when He sees this type of action no matter the circumstance.

I had a Deacon friend tell me one time that when about half of the church is complaining it is too cold and the other half is complaining it is too hot, then Pastor Shane, you probably have the temperature just about right in the church.

Murmuring is unbelief in God's Word, which says, ..." all things work together for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28). The Apostle Paul warned Christians to avoid the danger of murmuring when he stated, "nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer" (1 Corinthians 10:10).

Friend, I want to say in a very stark way that murmuring is not for Christians. Paul again says that Christians should do all things without murmuring (Philippians 2:14. In the Epistle of Jude, the Bible says that those who murmur are in the same category as ungodly sinners who will inherit judgment: "...to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds...These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lust" (Jude 15-16).

I used to think people murmured because they had many problems, but now I realize that they have issues because they murmur. The Scriptures teach us that our words are the basis for whether we are justified or condemned. Realize this; we should eradicate negative words, griping or grumbling, and fill our mouths with praise and thanksgiving! AMEN!