The Bible addresses grumbling often, usually in a negative light. It encourages a spirit of gratitude and warns against the consequences of complaining, using stories of the Israelites as examples of the dangers of discontent.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Weight
What Does The Bible Say About Grumbling
Philippians 2:14
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing”
This verse emphasizes the importance of contentment and unity among believers. Grumbling and arguing can easily create division and hinder the work of God. Instead, we are called to approach every situation with a grateful and joyful heart, reflecting the love of Christ.
1 Peter 4:9
“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling”
Through this verse, we are reminded to extend love and kindness to others without any reservations or complaints. True hospitality requires a selfless attitude, putting the needs of others before our own, and displaying a joyful and welcoming spirit.
Exodus 16:7
“…and in the morning you will see the glory of the Lord because he has heard your grumbling against him.”
This verse serves as a reminder that our grumbling and complaints ultimately reflect our discontentment with God’s provision. Rather than complaining about our circumstances, we should remember that God is faithful and will provide for our every need.
Numbers 14:27
“How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites.”
God’s response to the grumbling of the Israelites in this verse reminds us of the consequences of continually complaining against God. Grumbling not only hinders our relationship with God but also disrupts our spiritual growth and blessings.
James 5:9
“Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!”
Grumbling against one another not only harms our relationships but also invites God’s judgment upon us. Instead, we should learn to communicate with love, grace, and kindness, seeking reconciliation and peace.
Psalm 106:25
“But they grumbled in their tents and did not obey the Lord.”
This verse warns us about the consequences of grumbling and disobedience. When we allow ourselves to grumble, we are expressing a lack of trust in God’s plan and guidance, which often results in disobedience to His commands.
Luke 15:2
“But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, ‘This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.’”
This verse highlights the grumbling and murmuring of the religious leaders toward Jesus’ association with sinners. It challenges us to examine our hearts and attitudes towards those who are different from us, reminding us of Christ’s love and acceptance for all.
Jude 1:16
“These people are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage.”
This verse warns against the negative character traits associated with grumbling. It reveals that grumblers tend to focus on their own self-interests, are critical of others, and lack genuine humility. It serves as a reminder to cultivate a heart of gratitude and humility.
1 Corinthians 10:10
“And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel.”
In this verse, Paul reminds the Corinthian church of the consequence of grumbling by referring to the Israelites who were punished in the wilderness. It cautions us against the destructive nature of grumbling and the importance of trust and obedience in our relationship with God.
John 6:41
“At this, the Jews there began to grumble about him because he said, ‘I am the bread that came down from heaven.’”
This verse highlights the grumbling of the Jewish people in response to Jesus’ claim of being the bread from heaven. It illustrates a lack of faith and understanding, as they fail to recognize the significance of His identity and His purpose for humanity.
Psalm 59:15
“They wander about for food and howl if not satisfied.”
These words from Psalm 59 illustrate the consequence of grumbling when discontentment takes over. It serves as a reminder to seek contentment in the Lord and to rely on His provisions rather than relying on worldly possessions or desires.
Numbers 11:1
“Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the LORD, and when he heard them his anger was aroused.”
This verse illustrates the result of grumbling in the presence of God. Our complaints and discontentment can provoke His anger, underscoring the importance of approaching Him with an attitude of gratitude and trust.
Psalm 106:25
“They grumbled in their tents and did not obey the LORD.”
This verse demonstrates the connection between grumbling and disobedience. When we choose to grumble, we often lose sight of God’s will and fail to follow His commands. It encourages us to resist the temptation to complain and instead submit to the Lord’s authority.
1 Corinthians 10:9
“We should not test Christ, as some of them did—and were killed by snakes.”
Paul warns against the danger of grumbling and testing the Lord, referring to the Israelites’ rebellion in the wilderness where many were bitten by snakes. It serves as a reminder that our complaints and lack of trust can have severe consequences.
2 Timothy 2:14
“Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value and only ruins those who listen.”
This verse cautions against wasting time and energy on pointless arguments and disputes. Grumbling often leads to quarrels and divisiveness, which ultimately harm the community of believers. Instead, we are called to focus on edifying and uplifting one another.
James 4:11
“Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it.”
Grumbling can take the form of slander and judgment toward others. This verse reminds us of the importance of speaking words that build up and encourage, rather than tearing down or criticizing our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Ephesians 4:31
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.”
This verse emphasizes the need to eliminate grumbling and negative attitudes from our lives. Grumbling can lead to bitterness and anger, hindering our relationships with others. Instead, we are called to embrace forgiveness, love, and unity.
1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
When we find ourselves tempted to grumble, this verse reminds us to turn to God in prayer and trust Him with our anxieties and concerns. Surrendering our worries to Him allows us to experience His peace and find contentment in His care.
Psalm 34:1
“I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
This verse encourages us to cultivate a heart of praise and thanksgiving, which helps guard against grumbling. Choosing to focus on God’s goodness and faithfulness enables us to maintain a positive and grateful attitude, even in the midst of challenges.
Lamentations 3:22-23
“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
This verse reminds us of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness. When we grumble, we miss out on recognizing and appreciating His constant provision and care in our lives. It calls us to remember His faithfulness and to respond with gratitude and trust.
Psalm 106:25
“They grumbled in their hearts and would not obey his commands.”
Grumbling often originates in the heart, revealing our resistance to obey God’s commands. This verse reminds us of the importance of aligning our hearts with His will, submitting to His authority, and trusting in His wisdom.
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”
This verse encourages contentment as an antidote to grumbling. When we trust in God’s provision, recognizing that He will never abandon us, we can be content with what we have and avoid the temptation to complain or covet what others possess.
Psalm 145:9
“The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.”
This verse highlights God’s goodness and compassion towards all. When we remember His loving kindness and mercy, it becomes easier to let go of grumbling and instead choose gratitude and praise for the ways He blesses and cares for us.
James 5:10-11
“Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”
This passage reminds us of the importance of patience and trust in God’s sovereignty, even in the face of suffering. It encourages us to look to the example of the prophets and Job, who patiently endured trials, and to remember that the Lord is compassionate and merciful through it all.