“Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!” (James 5:9).
All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). So, how do you cope with and conquer such adversity and difficulty? How do you resist the temptation to retaliate when defrauded and mistreated? How do you live as a victor over—not a victim of—your circumstances?
James inspired counsel (vv. 7-11) for dealing with adversity begins with: Take a long look forward and Fortify your heart (see two previous posts).
He continues with: Avoid grumbling. Just as self-pity weakens your spiritual defenses, grumbling against one another weakens everyone striving to fight the good fight of faith.
By definition, adversity is not enjoyable. It is designed by the Adversary to weaken your personal resolve and deteriorate the cohesive bonds of brotherhood. An army at war with itself is easily conquered.
Grumbling and complaining are powerful weapons which must be tenaciously opposed by every Christian soldier who desires spiritual victory. The only sure antidotes to these horrific tools of Satan are gratitude and prayer.
Grumbling has no room to germinate in a heart of gratitude. Praying lips prevent complaining ones.
