grumbling

read a devotional this morning on the Desiring God blog about sins that are common temptations to humans.  the devotional reflected on 1 Corinthians 10:13 which reads, "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."  the particular tempting sins that are being referred to in this passage are grumbling and sexual immorality.  God knows I love to grumble.  I grumble about being tired, my health, homework, money, to-do lists, living so far from my family, the hot weather... the list goes on and on.  

it is certainly tempting to me to grumble and complain!  this particular sin shows my false assumption that this world is my little kingdom and everything should go my way.  it's all about me and mine.  what I want, what I think should happen, what I deserve.  but the reality is that this world belongs to my God.  and thank Him for that.  He is in control and He is sovereign and He is faithful.  how quickly I forget

with each temptation is a promise.  if you turn to God's Holy Word, you will read loads of amazing and jaw-dropping promises.  for example, when I am tempted to grumble and complain, I must remember these promises: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6).  "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19).

when all I want to do is grumble, my focus and attention is on me, not on the almighty God who cares for me and promises to direct my paths and supply my every need.  He is truly an amazing Father.