Our text for today is James 5:9.
“Do not grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged.”
Grumbling rarely feels dangerous. It seems harmless—just blowing off steam, right?
But let’s take a closer look. Grumbling is more than words; it’s a low, persistent complaint that simmers beneath the surface. It’s the quiet muttering of a discontented heart. One person described it like this: “Grumbling is a tiny storm cloud that follows you around, mumbling under its breath. It’s when your heart sighs out loud, even if your mouth only whispers.” Like a toddler fussing over a sandwich cut the wrong way—something’s not right, and it just has to be known.
The danger? Grumbling doesn’t stay small. It spreads. Grumbling leads to more grumbling. It sours relationships. It steals peace. James warns us because he knows how easily it seeps into the spaces between people. A sigh. A sarcastic jab. A whispered complaint. Grumbling chills warmth and breaks unity.
Instead, we’re called to speak with grace. To be patient. To bring our frustrations to God, not to each other in bitterness. Prayer, not murmuring, is the path to peace.
Next time you feel that urge to grumble, pause and ask: Is this helpful? Is this holy? Will this build up or tear down?
Let me leave you with this little poem:
“We mutter and sputter. We fume and we spurt.
We mumble and grumble; our feelings get hurt.
We can’t understand things. Our vision grows dim,
When all that we need is a moment with Him.”
I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.