The tongue has the power of life and death… —Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)

It’s better out in the desert than at home with a nagging, complaining wife. —Proverbs 21:19 (CEV)

Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. —Philippians 2:14-15 (NLT)

3 promises to contain your complaining:

Promise #1: I will not hang out with people who complain about everything.

Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. —Proverbs 13:20 (NLT)

Promise # 2 – I will speak words of life

After Paul and Silas came out of prison, they went to Lydia’s house, where they met with the brothers and sisters and encouraged them. —Acts 16:40 (NIV)

Promise #3 – I will be thankful for what I have.

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. —1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV

What’s your heart full of?

“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” —Matthew 12:34 (GNT)

Discussion Questions

1. How do you feel when you are around people who complain? Do you think complaining is “contagious”?

2. Sometimes when we hear complaints, we may feel the urge to join in and complain as well. What are some ways we can avoid that temptation?

3. Why do you think God wants his people to abstain from complaining?

4. What does the act of complaining say about our character?