I tend to grumble when I don’t get my way. Thankfully, I’m learning how to overcome that demon named Grumbler.
Just as joy is the overflow of a thankful heart, complaining is the overflow of an ungrateful heart. Grumbler, the demon is defeated when I choose to be thankful.
“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever!” Psalm 107:1
When I stop and think of how deeply Christ loves me, my grumbling starts crumbling and my joy abounds! This love He has for me will never end. He loves me so much He wants to spend eternity with me! I’m content knowing this.
Francis Frangipane writes, “Personally, I’ve declared war on grumbling. Can you join me with this? Can you crucify a murmuring spirit? We have received too many gifts and privileges to allow a grumbling, murmuring heart to disqualify us from our destiny.”
Amen! I too, am declaring war on grumbling! Instead of complaining, I will give thanks for what God has brought into my life— even the hardships and disappointments.
Through the power of the Holy Spirit I can “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in everything give thanks!” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Should you hear me grumbling again, you have my permission to tell me to stop it and be thankful.
If that doesn’t work just slap me upside the head! Just kidding!
Seriously though. Let’s declare war on grumbling! It’s a war we can and must win. Our joy depends on it!
“I will proclaim Your greatness, my God and King; I will thank You for ever and ever. Every day I will thank You; I will praise You for ever and ever.” Psalms 145:1-2
Heartspills 
Walt, thank you once again for sharing your words of wisdom and truth. I myself have to be on guard every day against grumbling, as I have five chronic pain conditions. Especially, lately, the DJD (Degenerative Joint Disease). Growing up in an abusive household, the Lord gave me a wonderful gift that helps defuse tense moments and turn the tide on physical violence: humor. Thank God I am decades past that time in my life, but I still use humor to lighten what to some might seem “grumble-worthy.” For example, I can no longer walk down the stairs without hurting myself, possibly falling. So each morning, I scoot down on my fanny. Marc is at his desk computer nearby, and it hurts him that I have to do that (he is so tender!). We have a little shtick we do: I announce, Here comes Scooter! On her pooter! Or else, She just floats down the stairs! And he mutters, Yeah, just like a young gazelle! It helps. And I know God is pleased that we are not grumbling, but smiling, even laughing! So thank you for your encouraging words. And hug that pretty wife from me! Love, Patti
LikeLiked by 1 person
i can agree with you on this one. The only thing I can say is that I don’t think it’s a good idea to recommend that you get someone to slap you upside your head.
LikeLiked by 1 person