Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!James 5:9
Such a simple verse to understand; a bit harder to follow. It's interesting to me that many times in the Bible when a warning is presented, it's always associated with a common sin. This verse could have said, "Don't kill another. The Judge is standing at the door." It could have said, "Don't steal." "Don't commit adultery." But no, it has to be something so common as grumbling. Other words used: complain, murmur, and grudge against. All of these words are translated with slightly different meanings today. When we put all of them together we get a good picture. No grumbling against each other. No complaining about each other. No murmuring against each other. No feelings of grudge against each other. Basically, grumbling and complaining about each other leads to less common sins. This is almost the basic level where it starts. Pride and jealousy probably cause some of the grumbling and complaining. Whatever is the cause we need to get to the root and dig it out. What makes us complain about others? Sometimes there is a problem within ourselves that needs some care in order to take away the negative outlook on others. Sometimes we just get in a complaining habit or put ourselves around other complainers. One way, the cycle needs to be broken. Whether it's an outward problem for us or we complain to ourselves and therefore put a sour look on our face, we will still be judged. Christ is the Judge and He is standing at the door. It doesn't matter to our Savior if we're grumbling against those who deserve it or not. The act of grumbling and complaining effects our spirit, our heart, our happiness & others, our example, and the look on our face. The bible also states "If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by eachother"—Galatians 5:15.

It's hard to do but when we find ourselves wanting to judge , gossip or complain, we need to change the subject, leave the room, eat a cookie ( but not too many :), or something. Break the cycle and start new habits. Others will notice and maybe even follow our example. See how it goes and remember we can ask God for help and strength. Theme for the weekend: Break the cycle! (I really wish the theme could be: Eat a cookie!)