Grumbles of Selfishness (Day 5.3)

Welcome back to the Bible Cafe as we continue digging inside our thought closets.

Another uncomfortable day of Bible Study, as I God reveals that my actions are selfish. He disciplines His children because He loves them, even if it means telling us something we prefer not to hear. On page 111 in the book, I answered the “Grumbling” question with this:

• I grumble when people are too slow as I am driving or waiting in line
• I grumble when no one helps me clean my home

Until now, I did not understand that these thoughts stem from self-centeredness. I felt entitled to complain and often I complained aloud, to the distress of my 7-year old daughter. She often repeats “Mom, God would not like those words. You should not call someone ‘stupid’ because they drive wrong.” I realize that my words are selfish and my words do not honor God. My cleaning issues result from a sense of entitlement. When I was a child, everyone cleaned our home, so I feel entitled to have my own family assist me with chores.

With these two thoughts centered inside my closet, I have little room to behave in a manner that honors God. Jennifer Rothschild makes this very clear on page 112 as we read the numerous complaints from the Israelites. The truth is found in Philippians 2:3.

Group Discussion

What did you write for Statements of Gratefulness on page 114?

Today’s Verses

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3

Do everything without complaining or arguing. Philippians 2:14

Prayer Requests

We’re still praying for Lanie and her Mom’s Ovarian Cancer.

Lord, we pray that as we continue our thought closet discovery, you will reveal our grumblings and show us opportunities to reflect your word.