Repetition of the same thought or physical action develops into a habit which, repeated frequently enough, becomes an automatic reflex. Norman Vincent Peale
Complaining Spirit

When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner.
Matthew 20:11

As we continue to look at the parable of the workers in the vineyard, we see that although the landowner gave the workers their agreed wages, they were not happy and complained against him. They lacked a heart of gratitude when they failed to give thanks for what the landowner gave them. Little children are often taught to thank a person who gives them a gift, showing that they are grateful for what they received. As adults, we need to continue to have a grateful heart, giving thanks to the Lord for His grace and favour in our lives.
Today’s scripture talks about a generous landowner, giving out of His abundance and wanting to bless all the workers equally. Unfortunately, the reaction he got was not one of gratitude but attack. The true nature of God is to give but the nature of man is to complain and find fault.

When the children of Israel were wandering in the desert, the Lord, out of His goodness, gave them manna to eat. They did not have to work for it but the food was provided from heaven, fresh every morning, ready for their taking. Even so, they were not satisfied and found reason to complain against the Lord.

 

There is a close association between grace and thanksgiving. As we thank the Lord for our families, our jobs, our health, our friends, we will continue to experience the grace of God in our lives. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Regardless of what circumstances we may find ourselves in, the will of God is for us to thank Him.

 

When we give thanks to God, we acknowledge His goodness and as we express and proclaim our appreciation, our spirits are released to serve Him. So let us make an effort to cease our grumbling and complaining and ask the Lord to give us thankful hearts so that His glory may be proclaimed in our lives.

Dear Lord,
I thank You Lord for this day, for providing for all my needs. Your blessings are new every morning and my heart is filled with joy and thanksgiving. May Your will be done as I proclaim Your goodness in my life. Amen.

God bless you,
Theo and Manju