Complaining is a common struggle, but the Bible offers guidance for Christians on how to handle it. Scripture teaches that grumbling can come from a lack of trust in God’s plan, leading to feelings of dissatisfaction. Various Bible verses highlight the spiritual dangers of a complaining attitude, showing how it can create distance between God and us and disrupt harmony within the church.
Both Old and New Testament teachings emphasize that God desires us to have grateful hearts, even when faced with challenges. Complaining reveals a lack of faith and can hinder our growth in Christ. By focusing on God’s provision and trusting His plan, believers can foster a spirit of thankfulness, avoiding the harmful effects of constant negativity. These verses remind us that cultivating gratitude leads us closer to God’s peace and helps us align with His will.
Bible Verses About Complaining
1. Philippians 2:14
Do all things without murmurings and disputings.
Complaining disrupts unity and harmony within the community. Paul urges believers to do all things without grumbling or disputing, as these negative behaviours weaken relationships and create division. A spirit of contentment should replace a habit of complaining, allowing believers to shine as lights in a world filled with darkness.
By refraining from complaints, we demonstrate trust in God’s plan and avoid fostering resentment. Complaining is often an expression of dissatisfaction with God’s provision or timing. When we avoid it, we reflect a heart of gratitude and humility, acknowledging that God’s ways are higher than ours.
2. James 5:9
Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.
James warns against holding grudges or complaining about one another. Such attitudes invite judgment, as God is constantly aware of our hearts. Holding onto complaints or grievances against others will not only strain relationships but also bring us under divine scrutiny.
Instead of nurturing complaints, believers are encouraged to exercise patience and forgiveness. Complaining often stems from unresolved conflict or unmet expectations. By releasing these burdens to God, we avoid the trap of bitterness and keep our relationships healthy and honouring to Him.
3. Exodus 16:8
And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.
When the Israelites complained about their provisions, they were ultimately grumbling against God. Moses reminds them that their complaints were not directed towards him but towards the Lord, who had been faithfully guiding them. Complaining can be an act of rebellion against God’s sovereignty and goodness.
This passage illustrates how complaining reflects a lack of trust in God’s provision. Rather than expressing gratitude for the miraculous sustenance, the Israelites focused on their desires. Similarly, when we complain, we forget how God has provided in the past, and this dishonours His faithfulness.
4. Numbers 11:1
And when the people complained, it displeased the LORD: and the LORD heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the LORD burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp.
Complaining against God’s provision provoked His anger towards the Israelites. Their complaints were an expression of ingratitude, and the consequences were severe. God desires hearts full of faith and trust, not ones filled with discontent and grumbling.
This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of chronic complaining. It not only grieves God but also invites His discipline. When we focus on what we lack, we miss the abundance of what God has already provided. Faith requires trust in God’s timing and care.
5. 1 Corinthians 10:10
Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.
Paul reminds the Corinthians of the dangers of complaining, referring to the Israelites’ destruction as a result of their murmuring. Complaining leads to destructive outcomes, both spiritually and physically. It robs us of joy and hinders our relationship with God.
This verse highlights how seriously God takes the sin of complaining. The Israelites’ murmuring led to judgment, and it stands as a caution for us today. Instead of complaining, we are called to trust in God’s wisdom and plans, knowing that He works all things for our good.
6. Psalm 106:25
But murmured in their tents, and hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD.
The Israelites’ complaints were not just public outbursts; they grumbled in the privacy of their homes, revealing hearts that were closed to God’s voice. Complaining distances us from hearing God clearly because it fosters dissatisfaction and rebellion in our hearts.
This passage illustrates how complaining can become a pattern that blocks our ability to listen to God. When we allow discontent to fester, it drowns out the voice of God and leads us away from His guidance. Instead of complaining, we should cultivate a spirit of listening and obedience.
7. Jude 1:16
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration because of advantage.
Jude describes murmurers and complainers as those driven by selfish desires. Their complaints stem from dissatisfaction with God’s will and an obsession with their own lusts. Complaining is often tied to a lack of self-control and contentment with God’s plan for our lives.
This verse warns that complaining reflects an inward focus on personal desires rather than God’s purposes. When we complain, we are essentially saying that we deserve more or better than what God has given. Instead, we should submit our desires to Him and trust His perfect provision.
8. Psalm 77:3
I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah.
In this Psalm, the writer reflects on how his complaints overwhelmed his spirit, leading him to a place of despair. Complaining can be emotionally exhausting, as it magnifies our problems and minimises God’s power. It leads to a downward spiral of negativity and hopelessness.
This passage shows how complaints can cloud our perspective of God. When we focus on our struggles instead of His faithfulness, we feel overwhelmed and burdened. Rather than complain, we should remember God’s past goodness and allow that to renew our hope and strength.
9. Proverbs 19:3
The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the LORD.
When things go wrong, the natural response may be to complain and blame God. However, this verse reveals that such complaints often stem from our own foolishness. Our mistakes and choices may bring about consequences, yet we blame God instead of accepting responsibility.
Complaining reveals a heart that frets against God, challenging His wisdom and goodness. Rather than turning to Him in humility, a complaining heart seeks to shift blame. True wisdom acknowledges God’s sovereignty and responds with trust, even when life takes unexpected turns.
10. Lamentations 3:39
Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins?
Jeremiah reminds us that we often deserve the consequences we face due to our sin, yet we still complain. Complaining, in this context, is futile because it ignores the justice of God. Rather than complaining, we should humbly accept responsibility and seek God’s forgiveness.
This verse calls us to reflect on our attitudes in difficult times. Complaining about consequences doesn’t change them; it only hardens our hearts. A better response is to repent and trust that God’s discipline is meant to restore, not destroy.
11. Isaiah 29:24
They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine.
Isaiah speaks of a future time when those who complained and misunderstood God’s ways would come to understanding. Complaining is often rooted in a lack of spiritual maturity and knowledge of God’s character. As we grow in our faith, our tendency to murmur fades, replaced by trust and obedience.
This verse offers hope that through learning and understanding, we can move away from a complaining spirit. Instead of focusing on our frustrations, we can turn to God’s Word for clarity and guidance. As we deepen our understanding of His nature, we realise that His plans are always for our good.
12. Job 10:1
My soul is weary of my life; I will leave my complaint upon myself; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul.
Job’s anguish led him to express complaints, revealing the depth of his suffering. Complaining can be a natural reaction to overwhelming pain, but it does not change the circumstances. Job’s words demonstrate how a complaining heart can be filled with bitterness, further isolating us from God.
While expressing feelings of grief is not wrong, allowing complaints to dominate our thoughts can pull us away from trusting God’s sovereignty. Like Job, we may feel the weight of suffering, but faith requires us to shift from complaint to surrender, trusting that God’s purpose is still at work.
13. Numbers 14:27
How long shall I bear with this evil congregation, which murmur against me? I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they murmur against me.
God directly addresses the murmuring of the Israelites, calling it evil and revealing His frustration with their constant complaints. Their unwillingness to trust Him despite His miracles led them to grumble. Complaining here is equated with disobedience and lack of faith in God’s promises.
This verse highlights how seriously God views complaining, especially when it comes from a heart of unbelief. The Israelites had seen God’s power firsthand, yet they still grumbled. Likewise, when we complain despite God’s faithfulness, we dishonour Him and display a lack of trust in His plan.
14. Habakkuk 1:2
O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save!
Habakkuk, distressed by the injustice around him, voices his complaint to God. Although his complaint stems from righteous indignation, it shows how waiting for God’s intervention can lead to feelings of frustration. However, instead of grumbling in hopelessness, Habakkuk engages in a sincere dialogue with God.
This verse reflects the balance between lament and complaint. It’s natural to cry out to God in times of confusion or pain, but Habakkuk’s example shows that we should bring our frustrations to God in faith, trusting that He hears and will act in His perfect timing.
15. John 6:43
Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves.
Jesus addresses the murmuring of the crowd, who struggled to understand His teachings. Complaining often arises from a lack of comprehension or acceptance of God’s ways. Instead of murmuring, Jesus calls for faith and open hearts to receive His message, even when it challenges our understanding.
This verse reveals that murmuring is not just about dissatisfaction but also about resisting God’s truth. When faced with difficult teachings or situations, we are tempted to complain rather than seek understanding. Jesus’ call is for us to stop murmuring and trust His wisdom, even when it is hard to grasp.
16. Psalm 55:17
Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
In this psalm, David chooses prayer over complaints. Rather than dwelling on his troubles, he brings them to God in prayer, knowing that God hears him. Complaining is often an expression of helplessness, but prayer is a proactive response, seeking God’s intervention.
This passage highlights the power of prayer in overcoming a complaining spirit. When faced with difficulties, we can either complain or pray. David’s example encourages us to make prayer our first response, trusting that God is always attentive to our cries, ready to act on our behalf.
17. 1 Peter 4:9
Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
Peter encourages believers to show hospitality without grudging or complaining. Even when serving others, it’s easy to fall into the trap of murmuring about the inconvenience or sacrifice involved. Genuine hospitality reflects a heart of love and selflessness, not one filled with complaints.
This verse challenges us to check our attitudes when serving others. Complaining while doing good diminishes the value of the act. Instead, we are called to serve with joy and gratitude, recognising that hospitality is an expression of God’s love flowing through us to others.
18. Jonah 4:9
And God said to Jonah, Doest thou well to be angry for the gourd? And he said, I do well to be angry, even unto death.
Jonah’s complaint about the withered plant reveals his deep-seated frustration and anger. God challenges Jonah’s perspective, asking if his anger is justified. Complaining often arises from misplaced priorities, where we focus on personal comfort rather than God’s greater plan.
This verse shows how complaining distorts our view of what truly matters. Jonah was more concerned about the plant than the salvation of an entire city. When we complain, we may lose sight of the bigger picture and miss out on God’s greater purpose, which often involves discomfort for our growth.
19. Romans 9:20
Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?
Paul addresses the attitude of questioning or complaining against God’s will. As the Creator, God has the right to shape our lives as He sees fit, and it is not for us to complain or question His decisions. Complaining in this sense challenges God’s authority and wisdom.
This verse reminds us that we are the creation, not the Creator. Complaining about our circumstances or questioning God’s choices reveals a lack of submission to His will. Instead of complaining, we should trust that He is working everything according to His divine plan, even when we don’t understand.
20. Job 7:11
Therefore I will not refrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.
Job’s complaints stem from his deep anguish and suffering, yet he openly expresses them before God. While God allows us to voice our pain, it is important to remember that constant complaining can lead to bitterness. Job’s journey reminds us that while expressing hurt is human, dwelling in complaint can cloud our faith.
This verse shows that while God is patient with our struggles, He also desires that we turn to Him in trust rather than remain in bitterness. Job eventually moves from complaint to surrender, showing us that the answer to suffering is not found in murmuring but in yielding to God’s sovereignty.
21. Philippians 2:14
Do all things without murmurings and disputings.
Paul instructs believers to carry out their tasks without complaining or arguing. This command challenges us to adopt a positive, humble attitude even when we face difficult or undesirable tasks. Complaining not only reflects discontentment but also disrupts the unity and peace within the body of Christ.
In our daily lives, it’s easy to fall into a habit of murmuring, especially when things don’t go as planned. However, this verse reminds us that our actions should be marked by joy and submission to God’s will, reflecting a heart that trusts in His provision and purpose, regardless of circumstances.
22. Exodus 16:8
And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.
Moses addresses the Israelites’ complaints about food in the wilderness, pointing out that their grumbling was ultimately directed at God. When we complain about our circumstances, we often fail to realise that we are indirectly questioning God’s provision and care for us.
This verse serves as a warning that murmuring is more than just an expression of dissatisfaction; it is a reflection of our attitude toward God. Instead of complaining, we should trust that God knows our needs and will provide for us in His perfect timing, even in challenging situations.
23. Numbers 11:1
And when the people complained, it displeased the LORD: and the LORD heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the LORD burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp.
The Israelites’ complaints angered God, showing how seriously He takes a grumbling spirit. Their constant dissatisfaction and lack of trust in God’s provision led to divine judgment. Complaining, especially when it becomes a habit, can have serious spiritual consequences and erode our relationship with God.
This passage teaches us that complaints are not just harmless expressions of frustration; they can kindle God’s displeasure. Instead of complaining, we are called to develop a spirit of gratitude, trusting that God is working for our good, even when we do not see the full picture.
24. James 5:9
Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.
James warns against harbouring grudges and complaints against others, urging believers to live in peace and avoid judgement. Complaining about others can lead to bitterness and division within the community. Instead, James reminds us that God is the ultimate judge, and we should focus on unity and love.
This verse encourages us to examine our hearts for any complaints or grudges we may hold against others. Rather than criticising or complaining about those around us, we are called to show patience and grace, trusting that God will address any injustices in His time and way.
25. Matthew 20:11
And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house.
In the parable of the labourers in the vineyard, those who worked longer hours complained when they were paid the same as those who worked less. Their murmuring stemmed from a sense of entitlement and jealousy. This teaches us that complaining often arises when we compare ourselves to others and feel we deserve more.
This verse challenges our sense of fairness and entitlement. Instead of complaining about what we think we deserve, we should trust in God’s fairness and generosity. Comparisons lead to dissatisfaction, but contentment comes from accepting God’s provision for our lives, knowing that He is just in all His ways.
26. Lamentations 3:39
Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins?
Jeremiah reflects on the futility of complaining about the consequences of sin. Often, we complain when we face difficulties, even though some of those challenges are a result of our own choices. Rather than murmuring, this verse encourages us to accept responsibility and seek God’s mercy.
This verse highlights the importance of self-reflection when we feel the urge to complain. Instead of grumbling about the circumstances we find ourselves in, especially when they stem from our own actions, we should turn to God in repentance and humility, trusting in His grace to restore us.
27. Psalm 106:25
But murmured in their tents, and hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD.
The Israelites murmured in their tents, refusing to listen to God’s voice. Complaining here is linked to a refusal to obey, showing how grumbling can harden our hearts and make us deaf to God’s guidance. When we focus on our grievances, we may miss what God is trying to say to us.
This passage reminds us that complaining often distracts us from hearing and obeying God. When we are consumed with murmuring, our hearts become resistant to God’s voice. Instead of focusing on our discontent, we should open our hearts to His direction, trusting that His plans are always for our good.
28. Psalm 142:2
I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed before him my trouble.
David expresses his complaint to God in this psalm, demonstrating that it is not wrong to bring our frustrations before the Lord. The key difference between David’s approach and that of the Israelites is that David’s complaints were paired with trust in God’s response, rather than stubborn disobedience.
This verse teaches us that God welcomes our honest emotions, including complaints, as long as we bring them to Him in faith. Complaining in isolation leads to bitterness, but bringing our concerns to God opens the door for His comfort and guidance. David’s example encourages us to turn to God in our troubles.
29. Jude 1:16
These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration because of advantage.
Jude describes complainers as those who follow their own desires rather than God’s will. Their complaints stem from selfish motives, and their words are empty and boastful. Complaining, in this context, reflects a heart that is not aligned with God’s purposes, but rather with personal gain and ambition.
This verse serves as a warning that a complaining spirit often goes hand in hand with pride and selfishness. When we focus on our own desires, we are more likely to grumble about what we don’t have or what we think we deserve. Instead, we should seek to align our hearts with God’s will, content with His provision.
30. Ezekiel 18:25
Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal?
The Israelites complained that God’s ways were unfair, challenging His justice. God responds by pointing out that their complaints were misplaced and that it was their ways, not His, that were unjust. Complaining about God’s fairness reveals a lack of understanding of His righteousness and wisdom.
This verse reminds us that when we complain about God’s ways, we are often projecting our own limited perspective onto Him. Instead of accusing God of being unfair, we should trust that His ways are always just, even when we don’t fully understand them. Complaining about His plans only blinds us to His perfect wisdom.
Conclusion
The Bible offers clear guidance for Christians on the dangers of complaining and the need for a grateful heart. Complaining shows dissatisfaction and a lack of trust in God’s plan. From the Israelites to the New Testament, we see how grumbling distances us from God.
Shifting our focus from frustration to God’s faithfulness brings contentment, even in hard times. Trusting God’s provision helps us overcome the urge to complain. By embracing gratitude, Christians can nurture joy and strengthen their relationship with God, leading to greater peace and fulfilment.