Complaining feels natural when life feels unfair or overwhelming. I believe many people struggle with it without even noticing how it affects their heart. In my experience, constant grumbling makes faith weaker and gratitude harder.
Bible verses about complaining show that God cares about the words we speak and the attitude we keep. They remind us that choosing gratitude over negativity can bring peace and strength in difficult times.
This guide gathers powerful verses with simple explanations to help you grow in faith and gratitude. It also offers practical insights for trusting God and avoiding negative thinking in daily life.
What Does the Bible Say About Complaining?
The Bible teaches that constant grumbling displeases God because it reflects doubt and lack of trust in His plan. In Numbers 11:1, the Lord became angry when the people complained about their hardships. Philippians 2:14 encourages believers to do everything without murmuring or arguing, showing that a thankful heart is a mark of true faith.
Scripture also shows that complaining can lead to rebellion and loss of blessings. In 1 Corinthians 10:10, Paul warns against murmuring like the Israelites, who were punished for their unbelief. Instead, verses such as 1 Thessalonians 5:18 remind us to give thanks in all circumstances, trusting that God is always in control.
Complaining Shows Lack of Trust in God
Purpose: This section reminds us that constant complaining displeases God because it reflects doubt in His goodness and plan. These verses show how the people of Israel grumbled despite God’s care, and how such behavior led to serious consequences.
Numbers 11:1
“And when the people complained, it displeased the Lord and the Lord heard it and his anger was kindled and the fire of the Lord burnt among them and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp.”
Explanation: This verse shows that God takes complaining seriously. When the Israelites grumbled about their situation, it angered the Lord because it revealed their lack of trust in Him. Complaining is not a small matter; it damages our relationship with God. Instead of grumbling, He wants us to rely on His wisdom and provision.
Numbers 14:27
“How long shall I bear with this evil congregation which murmur against me I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel which they murmur against me.”
Explanation: God Himself called the act of constant murmuring evil. The Israelites’ complaining was more than frustration; it was rebellion against His will. This verse teaches that grumbling against life’s challenges is like doubting God’s power and care. When we complain, we forget His faithfulness in past blessings.
Numbers 14:29
“Your carcases shall fall in this wilderness and all that were numbered of you according to your whole number from twenty years old and upward which have murmured against me.”
Explanation: Here God reveals the severe consequence of constant complaining. Because of their unbelief, the Israelites would not enter the promised land. This verse is a sobering warning that grumbling can lead us away from God’s promises. It calls us to trust Him even when life feels uncertain.
Deuteronomy 1:27
“And ye murmured in your tents and said Because the Lord hated us he hath brought us forth out of the land of Egypt to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites to destroy us.”
Explanation: The people wrongly believed God had brought them out of Egypt to harm them. Complaining clouded their view of His love and faithfulness. This verse shows how grumbling twists our thoughts about God’s intentions. Trust grows when we choose gratitude over negative assumptions.
Psalm 106:25
“But murmured in their tents and hearkened not unto the voice of the Lord.”
Explanation: Instead of obeying God, the people complained in private. This reminds us that grumbling is not just about words but about a heart that resists His guidance. Choosing to listen and obey God brings peace, while murmuring only deepens dissatisfaction.
Exodus 16:2
“And the whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness.”
Explanation: This verse shows how quickly the people turned to complaining when facing hardship. Their focus was on their lack, not on God’s power to provide. We face the same choice today. Complaining keeps us stuck in fear, while faith opens the door to God’s help.
Exodus 16:7
“And in the morning then ye shall see the glory of the Lord for that he heareth your murmurings against the Lord and what are we that ye murmur against us.”
Explanation: Moses reminded the people that their grumbling was not against him but against God. Complaining about life’s struggles is often a sign of doubting God’s plan. This verse warns us to be mindful of our words, as they reveal what is truly in our hearts.
Exodus 16:8
“And Moses said This shall be when the Lord shall give you in the evening flesh to eat and in the morning bread to the full for that the Lord heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him and what are we your murmurings are not against us but against the Lord.”
Explanation: Even while providing for them, God heard their complaints. This verse teaches that God is aware of every word we speak. He wants us to replace grumbling with gratitude, especially when He has already met our needs.
Numbers 16:41
“But on the morrow all the congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron saying Ye have killed the people of the Lord.”
Explanation: The people kept blaming Moses and Aaron, even after God’s power was shown. Complaining can become a habit that blinds us to God’s truth. This verse warns that grumbling leads to more division and disobedience if left unchecked.
Numbers 17:5
“And it shall come to pass that the man’s rod whom I shall choose shall blossom and I will make to cease from me the murmurings of the children of Israel whereby they murmur against you.”
Explanation: God promised to prove His chosen leader so that the people would stop complaining. This verse shows that murmuring often comes from doubting God’s order and leadership. Trust in God removes the need to complain because it rests on His perfect plan.
God Warns Against Complaining
Purpose: This section shows that God clearly instructs His people to avoid complaining. These verses remind us that grumbling not only displeases Him but also harms our relationships and spiritual growth.
Philippians 2:14
“Do all things without murmurings and disputings.”
Explanation: Paul teaches believers to carry out every task without a complaining spirit. Complaining disrupts unity and hinders joy. When we serve and live with a thankful heart, we reflect Christ’s humility and love to others.
1 Corinthians 10:10
“Neither murmur ye as some of them also murmured and were destroyed of the destroyer.”
Explanation: Paul warns the Corinthians by reminding them of Israel’s punishment for murmuring. Complaining leads to disobedience and judgment. God calls us to be grateful and faithful instead of grumbling in difficult times.
James 5:9
“Grudge not one against another brethren lest ye be condemned behold the judge standeth before the door.”
Explanation: This verse warns against holding grudges or complaining about one another. God is watching, and He will judge unjust attitudes. Choosing patience and grace keeps us from bitterness and conflict.
John 6:43
“Jesus therefore answered and said unto them Murmur not among yourselves.”
Explanation: Jesus corrected those who complained about His teaching. Complaining against God’s truth shows a lack of faith and humility. We grow spiritually when we receive His Word with open hearts instead of grumbling.
John 6:61
“When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it he said unto them Doth this offend you.”
Explanation: Some disciples found Jesus’ words hard to accept and murmured. This verse reveals that grumbling often hides a heart unwilling to obey. True faith requires trust even when God’s ways challenge our understanding.
John 7:12
“And there was much murmuring among the people concerning him for some said He is a good man others said Nay but he deceiveth the people.”
Explanation: People debated and complained about Jesus without knowing the truth. This verse warns that murmuring spreads confusion and division. Instead of complaining, God calls us to seek truth and wisdom.
Jude 1:16
“These are murmurers complainers walking after their own lusts and their mouth speaketh great swelling words having men’s persons in admiration because of advantage.”
Explanation: Jude describes false teachers as constant complainers driven by selfish desires. Complaining often comes from pride and self-centeredness. God wants His people to be humble and content rather than critical.
Lamentations 3:39
“Wherefore doth a living man complain a man for the punishment of his sins.”
Explanation: Jeremiah reminds us that complaining about suffering is pointless when we deserve correction for our sins. Instead, we should repent and trust God’s mercy. Complaining does not bring healing, but repentance and faith do.
Job 10:1
“My soul is weary of my life I will leave my complaint upon myself I will speak in the bitterness of my soul.”
Explanation: Job openly expressed his deep sorrow. This verse shows that God allows honest prayers but warns against losing faith through constant bitterness. God understands pain but calls us to trust Him even in suffering.
Job 7:11
“Therefore I will not refrain my mouth I will speak in the anguish of my spirit I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.”
Explanation: Job poured out his heart honestly to God. His complaint came from anguish, not rebellion. This verse teaches that while we can share our struggles with God, we must guard our hearts against grumbling that leads to doubt.
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Examples of Complaining in the Bible
Purpose: This section shows real-life examples where people complained against God or His servants. These stories remind us how grumbling leads to fear, rebellion, and loss of blessings.
Exodus 17:3
“And the people thirsted there for water and the people murmured against Moses and said Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst.”
Explanation: The Israelites faced thirst and blamed Moses instead of trusting God. Their words showed fear and doubt rather than faith. This verse warns us that complaining in hard times often blinds us to God’s power to provide.
Numbers 21:5
“And the people spake against God and against Moses Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness for there is no bread neither is there any water and our soul loatheth this light bread.”
Explanation: The people complained about God’s provision, calling His gift of manna worthless. Complaining can lead to rejecting blessings that God provides. Gratitude changes our perspective and helps us value His daily care.
Numbers 20:2
“And there was no water for the congregation and they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron.”
Explanation: When the Israelites lacked water, they turned against their leaders in anger. Complaining creates division and conflict. This verse shows how grumbling spreads quickly and damages unity.
Numbers 20:3
“And the people chode with Moses and spake saying Would God that we had died when our brethren died before the Lord.”
Explanation: Instead of trusting God, the people wished for death. Complaining can lead to hopelessness and despair. This verse reminds us that negative words can strengthen fear instead of faith.
Exodus 15:24
“And the people murmured against Moses saying What shall we drink.”
Explanation: The people quickly forgot God’s miracles and focused only on their lack of water. This verse teaches that constant complaining comes from forgetting past blessings. Remembering God’s faithfulness builds trust in new challenges.
Exodus 16:3
“And the children of Israel said unto them Would to God we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt when we sat by the flesh pots and when we did eat bread to the full for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger.”
Explanation: The Israelites romanticized their life in Egypt while forgetting their slavery. Complaining can distort our memory and make the past seem better than it was. Gratitude keeps us focused on God’s plan instead of wishing for what is gone.
Psalm 77:3
“I remembered God and was troubled I complained and my spirit was overwhelmed Selah.”
Explanation: This verse shows a moment of deep discouragement. Complaining made the psalmist feel overwhelmed. It teaches that focusing on problems rather than God’s goodness increases our burden.
Psalm 55:2
“Attend unto me and hear me I mourn in my complaint and make a noise.”
Explanation: The psalmist cries out to God in his pain. While he complains, he also seeks God’s help. This verse reminds us that instead of grumbling to people, we should bring our struggles to the Lord in prayer.
Psalm 142:2
“I poured out my complaint before him I shewed before him my trouble.”
Explanation: Here the psalmist honestly shares his troubles with God. It shows that bringing our complaints to God in prayer is different from grumbling in unbelief. God listens when we humbly seek His help.
Lamentations 3:17
“And thou hast removed my soul far off from peace I forgat prosperity.”
Explanation: Jeremiah expresses his pain and sense of loss. Complaining came from focusing on hardship instead of hope. This verse reminds us that when we lose sight of God’s goodness, our hearts become restless and discouraged.
Gratitude Instead of Complaining
Purpose: This section reminds believers to replace complaining with thankfulness. Gratitude changes the heart, strengthens faith, and brings peace even in trials.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“In every thing give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
Explanation: God clearly commands us to be thankful in every situation. Gratitude is not about ignoring pain but trusting God’s plan. When we give thanks, we open our hearts to His peace and joy.
Colossians 3:15
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts to the which also ye are called in one body and be ye thankful.”
Explanation: Paul teaches that thankfulness brings peace to the heart. Complaining disrupts unity, but gratitude builds harmony. This verse reminds us that a thankful spirit honors God and blesses others.
Colossians 3:17
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed do all in the name of the Lord Jesus giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”
Explanation: Every action and word should honor Christ, and thankfulness should guide us. Complaining shifts focus to self, while gratitude keeps our eyes on God. Living with a thankful heart glorifies Him.
Psalm 100:4
“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving and into his courts with praise be thankful unto him and bless his name.”
Explanation: Worship begins with gratitude. This verse shows that thanksgiving draws us closer to God. Complaining pushes us away from His presence, but praise lifts our hearts in faith.
Philippians 4:6
“Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”
Explanation:
Instead of worrying or complaining, Paul urges us to pray with thanksgiving. Gratitude in prayer shows faith in God’s answer. Thankful hearts experience peace beyond understanding.
Ephesians 5:20
“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Explanation: Believers are called to thank God for everything, even hard times. Gratitude builds trust that He is working for our good. Complaining blocks joy, but thankfulness invites blessings.
Hebrews 13:15
“By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually that is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.”
Explanation: Praise and thanksgiving are sacrifices God values. When we choose gratitude in trials, it shows deep faith. Complaining takes away worship, while thankfulness honors God.
Psalm 107:1
“O give thanks unto the Lord for he is good for his mercy endureth for ever.”
Explanation: The psalmist praises God for His goodness and mercy. Gratitude reminds us that God’s love never fails. Complaining focuses on problems, but thanksgiving celebrates His faithfulness.
Psalm 118:1
“O give thanks unto the Lord for he is good because his mercy endureth for ever.”
Explanation: This verse repeats the truth that God’s mercy lasts forever. Thankfulness flows naturally when we remember His kindness. Complaining fades when we see His goodness clearly.
Psalm 136:1
“O give thanks unto the Lord for he is good for his mercy endureth for ever.”
Explanation: This verse is a call to constant gratitude. God’s love and mercy never end, so our thanks should never stop. Gratitude keeps our faith alive and removes the habit of complaining.
Encouragement to Trust God Without Complaining
Purpose: This section focuses on building faith instead of grumbling. Trusting God in difficult times brings strength, peace, and hope. Complaining fades when we believe that God is in control and working for our good.
Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
Explanation: This verse reminds us that faith means full trust in God rather than our own wisdom. Complaining often begins when we cannot see the reason behind our struggles. Choosing to trust God with all our heart brings freedom from worry. When we rely on His wisdom instead of our own, we learn that His plans are always better than our expectations.
Psalm 37:5
“Commit thy way unto the Lord trust also in him and he shall bring it to pass.”
Explanation: Placing our plans and problems in God’s hands shows deep faith. Complaining shows impatience, but trusting God shows surrender to His timing. This verse assures that when we rely on Him completely, He will accomplish what is best for us. It teaches that waiting with faith is far more powerful than speaking words of doubt and fear.
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear thou not for I am with thee be not dismayed for I am thy God I will strengthen thee yea I will help thee yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
Explanation: God promises His presence and strength in times of fear. Complaining happens when we forget that He is with us. This verse gives hope that He will carry us through every trial with His power. Trusting in this promise brings courage to face challenges without grumbling, knowing He never leaves us alone.
Psalm 55:22
“Cast thy burden upon the Lord and he shall sustain thee he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”
Explanation: God invites us to give Him our burdens. Complaining adds weight to our troubles, but surrendering them to God brings peace. This verse shows that when we trust Him fully, He upholds and protects us. Faith grows stronger as we stop carrying everything alone and allow Him to take control.
Matthew 6:34
“Take therefore no thought for the morrow for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”
Explanation: Jesus teaches not to worry about the future. Complaining is often rooted in fear of what might happen tomorrow. This verse encourages living one day at a time, trusting God for provision. Choosing faith over fear helps us find peace in the present and stops negative words from controlling our thoughts.
Matthew 11:28
“Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.”
Explanation: Jesus invites the weary to find rest in Him. Complaining cannot heal pain, but Christ can bring relief and hope. This verse reminds us that true peace comes only from trusting Him completely. Instead of focusing on problems, we find strength and comfort when we surrender everything into His hands.
Psalm 34:17
“The righteous cry and the Lord heareth and delivereth them out of all their troubles.”
Explanation: This verse assures that God listens to His people when they pray sincerely. Complaining does not bring answers, but prayer does. Trusting God with our struggles shows real faith. He promises to deliver us when we call upon Him with hope, not with constant grumbling.
Isaiah 26:3
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee because he trusteth in thee.”
Explanation:
True peace comes from focusing on God instead of problems. Complaining takes our eyes off Him and fills our hearts with fear. This verse encourages us to keep our thoughts fixed on God’s promises. When we trust Him completely, our hearts remain calm even in life’s storms.
Psalm 28:7
“The Lord is my strength and my shield my heart trusted in him and I am helped therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth and with my song will I praise him.”
Explanation: This verse celebrates the joy that comes from trusting God. Complaining steals joy, but faith leads to praise. When we place full confidence in Him, He strengthens us and answers our prayers. A thankful heart naturally overflows with worship instead of murmuring.
Psalm 9:10
“And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee for thou Lord hast not forsaken them that seek thee.”
Explanation: God never abandons those who trust Him. Complaining often comes from feeling forgotten, but this verse assures that He is always faithful. Knowing God deeply builds confidence in His care. Faith grows stronger as we remember His character and rely on His unchanging love.
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Conclusion
Complaining weakens faith and steals peace, while gratitude and trust draw us closer to God. These Bible verses about complaining have shown that God takes murmuring seriously because it reflects doubt in His goodness. The examples from Scripture remind us that a thankful heart leads to joy and strength, even in hard times.
By focusing on trust and prayer instead of negative words, we can experience peace that only God provides. Choosing gratitude over grumbling changes how we see life and helps us walk in faith each day.
