Complaining may seem small, but the Bible shows it can harm relationships and dishonor God. Today, we’ll explore what Scripture says about guarding our words and adopting a spirit of thankfulness instead of grumbling.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Forgiving Others Who Hurt You
What Does The Bible Say About Complaining About Others
Philippians 2:14-15
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”
This verse reminds us to refrain from complaining and arguing. By doing so, we can shine as lights in a sinful and broken world. Complaining only breeds negativity and does not reflect the character of God.
As children of God, we are called to rise above the tendency to complain and instead strive for blamelessness and purity. In this way, we can be a positive influence on those around us and bring glory to God.
James 5:9
“Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The judge is standing at the door!”
Complaining and grumbling about others can lead to judgment. This verse serves as a warning against speaking negatively about our brothers and sisters in Christ. Our words have consequences, and God is the ultimate judge.
Instead of complaining, we are called to love one another and extend grace and mercy. Let us be mindful of our words and actions, always seeking to build up and encourage our fellow believers.
Proverbs 19:3
“A person’s own folly leads to their ruin, yet their heart rages against the LORD.”
Complaining about others often stems from a heart that is filled with pride and self-righteousness. This verse reminds us that our own foolishness can lead to our downfall, yet we may still find ourselves blaming God.
Instead of complaining, let us humbly acknowledge our own faults and seek God’s forgiveness and guidance. May we have a heart that is willing to change and grow, rather than one that rages against the Lord.
1 Peter 4:9
“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.”
Complaining can hinder our ability to show hospitality and love to others. This verse urges us to offer hospitality without grumbling, emphasizing the importance of a gracious and kind spirit.
When we complain about others, we create an atmosphere of negativity that repels people rather than welcoming them. Let us cultivate an attitude of genuine hospitality, choosing to serve others with joy and love.
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Complaining about others often involves unwholesome talk that tears down rather than builds up. This verse encourages us to speak words that are beneficial and edifying.
Instead of complaining, let us seek opportunities to encourage and uplift those around us. A kind word or a listening ear can make a significant difference in someone’s life. May our words reflect the love and compassion of Christ.
Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”
Complaining about others can easily escalate into a multitude of words that can further contribute to strife and conflict. This verse advises us to exercise discretion and self-control by refraining from excessive speech.
When we choose to hold our tongues and think before we speak, we can prevent unnecessary arguments and misunderstandings. Let us be wise in our communication, seeking to promote peace and unity.
Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.”
Complaining can sometimes lead to speaking evil and spreading falsehoods about others. This verse reminds us to guard our tongues and refrain from engaging in gossip or slander.
Instead of complaining, let us use our words to speak truth, love, and encouragement. May our speech be a reflection of our character as followers of Christ.
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Complaining about others often arises from holding onto grievances and refusing to forgive. This verse encourages us to bear with one another and extend forgiveness, just as the Lord has forgiven us.
Instead of complaining, let us choose to let go of bitterness and resentment. May we imitate the grace and mercy that God has shown us, allowing forgiveness to mend relationships and promote unity.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
Complaining about others goes against the fruit of the Spirit, which includes self-control, kindness, and patience. This verse reminds us of the qualities that should be evident in the lives of believers.
Instead of complaining, let us seek to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our own lives. As we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, we can respond to others with love, gentleness, and forbearance.
Psalm 19:14
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
Complaining about others starts with the thoughts in our hearts and manifests in our words. This verse serves as a prayer, asking God to help us align our thoughts and speech with His will.
Instead of complaining, let us surrender our hearts and minds to God, allowing Him to transform our thoughts and words. May our speech be pleasing to the Lord, reflecting His love and truth.
Romans 14:10
“You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.”
Complaining about others often involves passing judgment and treating others with contempt. This verse reminds us that we are all accountable before God, and it is not our place to judge.
Instead of complaining, let us focus on our own shortcomings and leave the judgment to God. May we show grace and love to our brothers and sisters, recognizing that we are all in need of His forgiveness.
Proverbs 17:9
“Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.”
Complaining about others can strain relationships and create division. This verse encourages us to foster love by covering over offenses and not dwelling on them.
Instead of complaining, let us choose to forgive and let go of offenses. May we seek reconciliation and unity, cherishing our relationships and building bridges instead of walls.
Matthew 7:1-2
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Complaining about others often involves a spirit of judgment. This verse warns us about the consequences of passing judgment on others and reminds us to examine our own hearts.
Instead of complaining, let us strive to show love and mercy, knowing that God’s judgment is ultimately just. May we focus on our own growth and leave the judgment to Him.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Complaining about others contradicts the characteristics of love outlined in this verse. Love is patient, kind, and seeks the good of others, rather than dwelling on their faults.
Instead of complaining, let us strive to love one another with selfless devotion. May our actions and words demonstrate the love of Christ, bearing witness to His transforming power.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Complaining about others often elicits a defensive or angry response. This verse reminds us of the power of gentle and gracious words in diffusing conflicts and promoting peace.
Instead of complaining, let us choose to respond with gentleness and understanding. May our words be a source of healing and reconciliation, rather than stirring up anger.
Colossians 3:8
“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.”
Complaining about others can easily lead to anger, slander, and unwholesome speech. This verse urges us to rid ourselves of such negative and destructive behaviors.
Instead of complaining, let us intentionally replace anger and slander with forgiveness and kindness. May our words reflect the love and grace of our Savior.
Matthew 12:36
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.”
Complaining about others can lead us to speak words that are empty and devoid of value. This verse serves as a reminder that our words have consequences and will be evaluated by God.
Instead of complaining, let us choose our words carefully, speaking words that are uplifting and encouraging. May we use our words to honor God and bring blessing to others.
Proverbs 29:11
“Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.”
Complaining about others often gives vent to our anger and frustration. However, this verse encourages us to seek wisdom and bring about calmness and resolution.
Instead of complaining, let us exercise self-control and seek solutions rather than escalating conflicts. May we be peacemakers who bring about reconciliation and unity.
Psalm 141:3
“Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.”
Complaining about others often begins with the words we speak. This verse serves as a prayer, asking God to help us guard our mouths and speak words that are pleasing to Him.
Instead of complaining, let us invite God to have control over our speech, asking Him to guide and direct our words. May we bring honor to Him with every word we utter.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Complaining about others reflects a lack of gratitude and contentment. This verse encourages us to cultivate a heart of thankfulness, even in challenging circumstances.
Instead of complaining, let us choose to focus on the blessings and goodness of God. May gratitude mark our attitude, transforming our perspective and fostering joy in every situation.
James 1:19-20
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
Complaining about others often stems from a lack of listening and understanding. This verse reminds us of the importance of being slow to speak and quick to listen, as anger does not align with God’s righteousness.
Instead of complaining, let us practice active listening and strive to understand others’ perspectives. May we respond with love and compassion, seeking reconciliation rather than creating division.
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
Complaining about others rarely brings healing or encouragement. This verse highlights the impact of gracious words, which have the power to uplift and bring healing to the spirit.
Instead of complaining, let us choose to speak words that are filled with grace and kindness. May our words be a source of refreshment and blessing to those who hear them.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Complaining about others is not in line with conversation that is full of grace and wisdom. This verse encourages us to let our words be seasoned with the qualities of grace and wisdom.
Instead of complaining, let us seek to respond with gentleness and understanding. May we rely on the Holy Spirit to guide our words and provide wisdom in every interaction.
Matthew 5:44
“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Complaining about others can easily lead to animosity and bitterness. However, this verse challenges us to love our enemies and pray for those who mistreat us.
Instead of complaining, let us extend forgiveness and love, even to those who may have hurt us. May our actions and attitudes reflect the transformative power of God’s love.
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Complaining about others can often result in reckless and hurtful words. This verse emphasizes the impact of wise words, which have the power to bring healing.
Instead of complaining, let us choose our words wisely, speaking truth with love and compassion. May our words be a source of encouragement and restoration.