No More Complaining
Just when we think our life is tough God graciously shows us a glimpse of a life much more difficult than our own. My own whining quickly subsided as I took part in a combat patrol with U.S. Marines in northern Iraq.
It was 3 a.m., windy, cold, wet and raining. In other words, it was absolutely miserable. We were slipping along looking for the enemy. This was a very frightening experience, for me. You know what I noticed on this patrol? Not one of these Marines complained, whined or acted afraid. They had been trained for these combat situations and they were simply doing their job to protect and preserve our freedom.
This glimpse of the conditions these Marines operate in reminded me that in my life my job as a Christian is to praise God and be thankful for all He has done. In Philippians 2:13-14, we are reminded:
“For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. Do everything without complaining…”
Regardless of your circumstances, set aside the whining and complaining and lift up your praises to the Lord. I would personally ask that you include in your daily prayers our young men and women who are serving overseas.
I was extremely proud to be with those Marines and especially one in particular, my son, Lt. Adam Mathes.
