Complaints About God’s People

by Doy Moyer

I grew up in California. I have worked and lived in several states across the U.S. over several decades. And I have found this consistent pattern: Christians are good people. They are loving, giving, and striving to do what is right. None that I know claim perfection. But they want to please God and serve others. I am reminded of what Jesus told His disciples in Mark 10:28-31. In Christ, we have so many mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, and homes. I have experienced this firsthand many times, and I thank God for it.

Unfortunately, social media can be a platform for complaints about God’s people, and sometimes those complaints come from those among God’s people. Again, God’s people are not perfect. There are sometimes thorns and weeds in the garden. But we need to lift each other up, helping and serving, encouraging and strengthening. Grumbling and complaining ought not to characterize our interactions (Philippians 2:14-16).

We don’t ignore problems. But if you have a complaint against someone, go to that person. Talk it out. See if there are misunderstandings. See what can be done to alleviate the stress. Treat others as you want to be treated. “Faithful are the wounds of a friend” (Proverbs 17:6), but that requires being a faithful friend first.

Know this: “But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another” (Galatians 5:15).