Why and How I Stopped Complaining

by Shirley Peter
(Atkinson, Nebraska)

To start with, I realized that I don't like to be around someone who is whining and complaining all the time. I also felt that I was pretty much a drag myself when I complain.

Well, that is one reason why, but the second biggest reason I stopped complaining is I got deep into the Bible and I saw what God's opinion was of the Israelites when they complained.

I might think that they were really jerks, and such ungrateful people if God hadn't allowed me to see that I was the same when I complained about things. It is saying to God that I don't like what He is allowing in my life, that I don't trust Him, and that I think I am worthy of better.

I can just see Him shaking His head at the last one as He has stated that no one is worthy and it is only because of His grace and great love that I live, breath, and have what I do have.

How I stopped was by looking instead for the lesson He might be giving me in each situation, being thankful for the good things and even in the hard things.

I know that He has promised to be with me and work all things for my good as I work to His purposes and remain obedient to His Word.

I found that I feel so much better also when I look for the good instead of grousing about what is or isn't happening in my life. And I like feeling good.

I don't when I am dissatisfied and complaining, and besides I want others to find me a blessing to be around, not a bore.

So that's my story, and I am sticking to it with God's help.