The other day I complained and it was the best thing that’s happened to me in a while.
Christians, let me guess, that last sentence probably sent you in a tizzy. Simmer down (now). Relax. I know why you’re bothered by what I said.
“Do everything without complaining or arguing…” (Philippians 2:14)
That’s what you were thinking wasn’t it? Don’t freak out. Reading minds is my spiritual gift. (just kidding)
The only reason I know that is because that verse haunts me like a little Chihuahua that won’t stop nipping at your heels.
Do EVERYTHING without complaining? Seriously? I mean…it’s great advice but I want to complain. SO. BAD.
Normally, I man-up, act tough and put on a smile…until last week, minutes before giving the message at a church in Delhi, India.
I was so tired. The race is draining! But I did it…
I complained to God.
I told Him I was worn out and I think I used the words “I quit.”
I basically said “God I can’t do this so if anything is gonna happen, it’s gotta come from you because I’m done.”
And boom…something crazy happened. Actually, what was amazing was what did NOT happen.
I felt His arms wrap around me and Him say “I know.”
As crazy as this sounds, I think complaining was the most spiritual thing I could do because it connected me to Jesus in a way I desperately needed.
See, my problem was not that the Bible commanded me not to complain (which it does). My problem was I confused complaing with admitting weakness.
Because we’re not supposed to complain, I suck it up and act like superman.
Problem is…
If we are never weak, how can He be our strength?
If we are never worn out, how can we experience a savior?
If we are never tired, how can we find rest in Jesus?
If we never want to quit, how will we know His grace is enough?
If we are never worn out, how can we experience a savior?
If we are never tired, how can we find rest in Jesus?
If we never want to quit, how will we know His grace is enough?
To be clear, if complaining means whining and throwing a pity party just to gain attention then please don’t complain because complaining is selfish.
But if complaing means admitting you’re at the end of your rope and need help, then please pour your heart out to Him.
It just may be the best thing you’ve done in a while. It may feel weird especially if what has you exhausted is a good thing you asked for (your kids, job, home, etc.) but don’t let that stop you. Tell Him you can’t write another paper, go to another meeting,
change one more diaper.Be weak so that He can be strong!
And if it makes it any easier, God already knows what you are thinking and feeling. So go ahead and tell Him.
Anyone else feeling tired? Weak? Worn out? Anyone else need to complain? Or am I crazy?
