The children of Israel were professional complainers.  The Bible tells of at least five occasions in the wilderness journey when the people of God “murmured against Moses.”  They complained about the lack of water and food; they complained about the barrenness of the desert; they complained about their personal problems; they complained about everything.  Several times they actually expressed their desire to go back to Egypt where they had served as servants for over four hundred years.

     Although we are often critical of the children of Israel, I find that I, too, complain more often than I should.  Complaining seems to be the national anthem among evangelicals.  We complain about society, politics, the economy, other people, the pastor, the church, the traffic, the weather, and a host of other issues.

     When we complain it is usually because we have lost our sense of appreciation toward the blessings of God.  No matter what we go through, it could always be worse.  Take inventory of your words and expressions today.  Instead of complaining about what is wrong, be thankful about what is right.  Instead of murmuring about the ills of life, praise the Lord that He has led you out of bondage and brought you into a land that flows with milk and honey.