Definition of “Murmur”

“An abnormal sound, usually emanating from the heart”

Recently, I started complaining and getting irritated about circumstances (“sweating the small stuff”) in my life that aren’t going the way I want them to. My attitude was negative and my heart ungrateful. My husband gently reminded me of all the things God has done in my life and in the lives of those we love. He listed blessing after blessing that God has showered on us. As I listened to him, I was deeply ashamed.

While confessing my sin to God that morning, I thought of the Israelites. They began to murmur against God after He miraculously brought them out of Egypt. He had freed them from slavery and was leading them to the excellent land that He had promised to them. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t good enough for them. Instead of dwelling on their amazing circumstances of manna failing daily from heaven and God in a pillar of cloud guiding them, they missed Egypt! They missed the fish they used to eat for “free” and the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic. (Borrow from None & Numbers)

Paul writes in Philippians 4:11-12: “Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.”

Father God, please forgive me when I murmur and complain. Help me daily to get my focus off of me and onto You and You alone. I depend on You and thank You for my circumstances. Help me to see this life Your way. Amen.