Bible, Christian

Does Complaining Make You Feel Better?

Cindy Dawson

That’s why we complain isn’t it? To feel better. “After all, I’ve got to get this off my chest! I need to vent!”

But does it really make you feel better? I decided to do an experiment. What would happen if, instead of complaining, I thanked God.

Here’s what happened. The more I complained about my situation (to other people), the angrier I got. But when I thanked God for the positives in this situation, the more at peace I became.

What does God’s Word say?

“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. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.” Philippians 2:14-16 NIV

When we complain, it has a negative effect. It isn’t healthy. A person who doesn’t complain is refreshing to be around. One who is always complaining, not so much. The Israelites complained about everything after God brought them out of Egypt. We think, “How can they complain after God so spectacularly brought them out of slavery?” But are we any different? Hasn’t God brought us out of bondage to sin, and yet we complain about every little thing?

Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

I chuckle every time I read the following passage written by Beth Moore from her book, Breaking Free. She states the exact opposite of Philippians 4:6-7 to drive home a point.

“Do not be calm about anything, but in everything, by dwelling on it constantly and feeling picked on by God, with thoughts like, ‘and this is the thanks I get,’ present your aggravations to everyone you know but Him. And the acid in your stomach, which transcends all milk products, will cause you an ulcer, and the doctor bills will give you a heart attack and you will lose your mind!”

It’s funny because that’s what we do!

Next, I did some research. And there’s plenty of information on it. Consider this article from Penn State University.

“Complaining is also bad for your health. When you complain, your body releases more of the hormone that shifts a human into fight-or-flight mode, the hormone known as cortisol. This directs oxygen, blood, and energy from any system that is not crucial to survival. Frequent complaining results in extra cortisol being released, which puts a person more at risk for high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and strokes.

So what can we do to stop ourselves from complaining? Every time you find yourself making a negative observation, make a positive one instead. It is recommended that a person takes time to think about what they’re grateful for. Doing this can reduce cortisol by 23%, according to research at the University of California, Davis. Decreasing the amount you complain will have an overall more positive impact on your health. So why not start today?”¹

So now science is saying what God said thousands of years ago! I’m convinced. It’s time for me to stop complaining.

With Love, Cindy

Click this link to learn more about Jesus: Who Is Jesus?

realchristianwomen.blog  

¹https://sites.psu.edu/siowfa16/2016/10/21/what-does-complaining-do-to-your-brain/

Photo by Jose Aragones on Unsplash

37 thoughts on “Does Complaining Make You Feel Better?”

    2. I have another question for you, Bruce. I have studied the NIV Bible for 35 years. Now, someone I admire in the faith has said it isn’t recommended (especially the newer editions). He says the ESV is better. I just wondered if you had any thoughts on this or any resources. I have noticed that you don’t quote the NIV. Blessings, Brother!

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      1. Hi Cindy, I do recommend the NIV, especially for those new in the faith. It’s not always quite as accurate as the NASB or the ESV but it is easier to understand. For serious study I do recommend the NASB, ESV and I also use the Amplified Study Bible which I also find quite good. This link provides a basic overview on the major translations plus additional info should you wish to look at it: https://www.learnreligions.com/a-quick-overview-of-bible-translations-363228 Hope this helps! Blessings!

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  4. Because God designed us, it makes sense that following His commands would make us healthier; even though it goes against our natural responses (our thoughts are not His thoughts).
    Good post, Cindy!

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  5. When we feel like complaining we should immediately think of something positive – I like that Cindy. A very practical suggestion that will help.
    And sometimes complaining is done under the excuse of ‘just venting’
    Thank you for sharing this Cindy 🌺😊

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  6. I used to be a complete complainer….its all I did! Now…when someone asks me how I’m doing I reply with, “I could complain….but I’m not gonna!” We all have reasons to complain. It’s in our nature…but the Lord has shown me that while we claim “I need to vent…or get this off my chest” it doesn’t do anyone any bit of good.

    I LOVE that Beth Moore quote. Definitely made me chuckle. She’s hilarious.

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  7. Thanks so much for this post, Cindy.
    Complaining, or murmuring, is something that God is not happy to hear, as we learn from the complaining Israelites in the desert.

    Complaining definitely affects our health negatively, and also the mental health of people who have to listen to it.

    I make the sign of the cross over my mouth in the mornings, to ask God for help to not complain. I know that my husband is very happy that I do this. 🌼🤗

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      1. Yes, a negative, complaining attitude is contagious.
        Let us pray for those who choose to complain, and, if the Lord gives us an opportunity, let us speak the truth in love to those who choose to complain. 🤗

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    1. I’m glad you liked it. It’s a lesson I have a hard time learning myself. But it really doesn’t make you feel better. We just think it will! I hope you are feeling well. I have continued to pray for you. Many blessings, Linda!

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