As we walked along the South Bend Riverwalk this morning, we could see and hear dozens of geese. Whether they were flying down the river or resting in the water, most of the geese were making lots of noise. Their squawks are as annoying as they are incessant. In my experience, geese are not easy to get along with. They are very territorial and will aggressively defend their turf. But it is their squawking that is their most offensive characteristic.
Now that I have gotten that off my chest and am finished complaining about geese, let’s move onto to the squawking of a different sort. Some people have become champions in the sports of complaining and arguing. I admit that I am one of those people, a fact of which I am not proud. I over analyze everything and everyone. I am honestly not trying to find something to complain about, but rather am trying to understand people and events. Still, when my analysis turns into grumbling, I have taken it too far. I need the grace of God and the mercy of His Son to influence my thinking and become my response, rather than complaining.
Philippians 2:14-15 says, “In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing, so that no one can speak a word of blame against you.” Complaining and arguing rarely make anything or anyone better. Words of grace and mercy, like those given to us in our Lord Jesus Christ, always make circumstances and people joyful. I am asking God to give me a heart of grace and mercy toward others, and guard my mouth so that I speak encouraging words rather than complaints.
Reluctant Retiree 