A Psalm of Whining

If you are like me, you find yourself whining more than you would expect.  Because I seem to have designated myself as an adviser to God, I frequently have suggestions and feedback and questions for Him.

Sometimes I express genuine concerns for my own attitudes and responses.  And real prayers for the needs of others.  And I deeply believe God welcomes my questions and fears and admissions of inadequacy.

But the reality is, more often than not, I am just whining.  These just scratch the surface of the whining I am capable of: Oh Lord, why?

Why is it (traffic, waiting at the doctor, finishing a task, a child’s needed change) taking so long?

Why are they so stubborn?  Why don’t they see it my way?

Why don’t I learn?  Why would I say that?Why are people so mean, hurtful, unkind, unwise? Oh Lord, when?

When will it warm up—or cool off?

When will I get married, or have a baby, or be able to sleep with this crying baby?

When will I ever catch up?  Get order restored to my house?

When will I ever get to do what I want to do? 

Oh Lord, how?

How can I be stronger, kinder, wiser?

How can I love that person?

How  can I do this impossible job?

How can I keep going, hang on, believe the best, keep hoping, trust You? 

And You respond:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. (Isaiah 55:8)

“I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul.” (Jeremiah 32:41)

“I am the Lord.  In its time I will do this swiftly.” (Isaiah 60:22b)

“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24)

26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26) 

I love these verses of hope and promise from God. And I take strength and courage knowing that ALL things are possible with God. 

What about you?  What do you whine about?

C2014 Judy Douglass