Don’t Let Complaints Steal Your Hope

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

─ Matthew 11:28

Darryl turned the car into the driveway and put it in park, but he didn’t immediately open his car door to get out. Instead, he turned to his daughter, Annie, and said, “I’ve listened to you complain the entire drive home. It seems you grumble about everything. Are you really that unhappy?”

Annie bristled and started to get defensive, but Darryl held his hand up. “It’s one thing to state the challenges you face and share your difficulties with me. I’ve always been here to listen, allow you to vent and pray for you and with you. But lately your complaints far outweigh the joy that used to bubble up out of you. When I reach out to offer encouragement, you turn away. I don’t know what to do.”

Darryl could tell she was holding her breath and trying not to cry.

“You are right,” she said barely above a whisper. “Middle school is so different. Everyone complains about everything. At first, I offered positive comments, but the girls just made faces and walked away.”

“Sounds like you’re trying to be someone you’re not by replacing your joy with complaints.” Darryl said.

“Yeah, it feels weird, and I think complaining steals my hope.”

“Why don’t we pray about it together and see what changes the Lord can help you make.”

When we can’t say something nice, it’s usually better to say nothing at all. We all face challenges in life, but instead of complaining, we should bring our troubles to the Lord where He will give us rest and hope.

Today’s One Thing

When you feel the temptation to complain today, take a step back and try to say something positive instead.

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