I have had a lot of trouble with this one lately. Not AS MUCH with what I say, but with the words going on internally. Most of it has to do with things not working in my timeline. Anyway, I know from several recent conversations that I am not the only one struggling with this so here is a good reminder for us all...
There's no way around it. "All" things in the Greek (πᾶς) means each, every, any, all, the whole, everyone, all things, EVERYTHING.
Other areas of the Word teach against gossip and back-biting (Psalm 50:20; Proverbs 10:18; 16:28; 20:19; 26:20; Romans 1:29-30; 1 Timothy 5:13), so we don't just refrain from grumbling or disputing until other people are out of earshot.
This Scriptural command is impossible without the Spirit of God, BUT, we can co-labor with the Holy Spirit and with one another to fight the temptation to grumble and dispute.
- When we disagree with another person's decision...Do all things without grumbling or disputing.
- When other's don't follow our timeline...Do all things without grumbling or disputing.
- When God Doesn't seem to be answering our prayers the way we want or expect Him to...Do all things
without grumbling or disputing.
- When another Christian isn't Spiritually maturing as fast as we would like to see them grow...Do all things without grumbling or disputing.
- When the boss is unkind or incompetent (in your opinion)...Do all things without grumbling or disputing.
- When politicians and world leaders make the right decisions or use the right words...Do all things without grumbling or disputing.
- When our spouses are incorrect...Do all things without grumbling or disputing.
- When our kids or our parents just don't understand...Do all things without grumbling or disputing.
- When _______________(fill in the blank here with the struggles YOU have)...Do all things without grumbling or disputing.
"With (our tongue) we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so." (James 3:9-10 ESV)
