Philippians 2:14-16

I didn't make time to read until this afternoon but was immediately convicted by what I read.

"Do all things without grumbling..."

How often do I complain each day?

I'm not a really negative person but if I really pay attention I'm quite to find fault or inconvenience.

It's so hard to dress during this weather, the kids were really fussy today, and my dreads are looking like they need some attention were just three of many complaints I made today about things that have clear bright sides!

This weather is beautiful! I really enjoy drinking a hot cup of coffee on cool mornings.

My children love me and want my attention. I have to opportunity (and calling) to teach them about God's love through my own. 

My hair is symbolic of my freedom in Christ. I can choose to find my identity in Him or struggle to create and maintain it apart from Him. I'm glad I have dreads and although they take a little work in the beginning it's nothing compared to the time and energy I disliked putting into previous hairstyles.

Rather than comment about the less than perfect weather, irritating moments of childrearing or vain frustrations I'm going to try to praise God for... Well, for being who He is. Regardless of circumstance He's praiseworthy and any complaint I have fades quickly when I consider Him.

 ¹⁴Do all things without grumbling or questioning, ¹⁵that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, ¹⁶holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.