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Grumpiness is a characteristic that defines certain personality types more than others. Some individuals are naturally inclined towards optimism and always perceive the glass as half full. In contrast, others appear to have been grumpy since birth, viewing every glass as nearly empty—and questioning who even drank from it. Regrettably, even after some individuals with a tendency towards grumpiness become Christians, they carry this trait with them. Having been this way for so long, they often perceive grumpiness as an inherent part of their identity rather than a flaw that requires correction. Other Christians may have been cheerful earlier in life but notice themselves becoming more irritable as they age. The causes of grumpiness vary, but the challenges of life can certainly contribute. For those who acknowledge that persistent grumpiness contradicts the joy found in the Lord (Acts 13:52;Galatians 5:22;Romans 14:17), there are practical steps to adjust their mindset:
1. Acknowledge that continuous grumpiness is sinful. Consider negative personality traits as akin to barnacles on a boat’s hull. Barnacles are a nuisance for boat owners as these small crustaceans gather in large numbers, increasing drag and reducing a boat’s fuel efficiency. Moreover, barnacles are notoriously challenging to remove. Similarly, sins of the personality, like grumpiness, adhere to our lives, burdening us and preventing us from fully embracing what it means to “walk by the Spirit” « This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. », (Galatians 5:16,25) «If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. », (Galatians 5:16,25). The grumpy Christian must resist dismissing the issue by claiming that it is just part of who they are.1. Phrases like, “That’s how I’ve always been” or “It’s too difficult to change” are excuses. Jesus paid too high a price to liberate us from our old ways for us to opt to remain in bondage (Romans 6:1-4).
2. Acknowledge grumpiness as sin each time it surfaces «If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. », (1 John 1:9). Grumpiness can become a pattern that others notice more easily than we do; many grumpy Christians are unaware of their grumpiness. To conquer a grumpy demeanor, we must align with God on this matter. Jesus never displayed grumpiness or irritability, despite all He encountered and the cross He bore, see Luke 10:21. Grumpiness has no place in the lives of His disciples «For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. », (Romans 8:29). By monitoring our reactions to various situations, we can become conscious of how we are perceived by others. By making it a habit to confess grumpiness as sin whenever we recognize it, we become even more attuned to it, and we can seek God’s assistance in changing our old ways.
3. Express gratitude to the Lord for every good gift He has bestowed «Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. », (James 1:17). A thankful heart is a joyful heart. Grumpiness and thankfulness cannot coexist. Choose to “give thanks in all circumstances” «In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. », (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Perpetually discontent individuals are so fixated on what is wrong that they fail to acknowledge what is right. A discontent Christian could benefit from initiating a gratitude journal. Within the journal, jot down one thing daily for which you can express gratitude. Then, when discontentment arises, shift your focus by perusing the journal and reminding yourself of God’s ceaseless goodness.
4. Take a moment to pause. When you sense yourself becoming discontent, take a pause. Even if only for a brief moment, granting yourself time to step back and reassess things is beneficial. If time allows, utilize your break for prayer, Bible reading, or listening to uplifting worship music that glorifies Christ. Have a nutritious snack. Locate a mirror and assess your facial expression. Smile.
5. Identify the factors contributing to discontentment. Pinpoint the root of the discontent, and you can address it more directly. Frequently, discontent individuals are drawn to content and individuals that fuel their discontent. They consume negative news, seek the companionship of pessimistic individuals, and listen to disheartening music. Overcoming a negative mindset necessitates that we cease nourishing it. We bear the responsibility to safeguard our hearts «Keep thy heart with all diligence; For out of it are the issues of life. », (Proverbs 4:23). It is beneficial to filter all forms of entertainment and external information through this question: “Does this elevate my heart in praise to God or drag it down into anger and despondency?”
A Christian inclined to discontent can address it in the same manner we combat any negative characteristic. We acknowledge it as sin, seek God’s assistance in transformation, and take steps to establish a new norm. The outcome is a more joyful perspective, a deeper connection with God, and spiritual advancement that will positively impact everyone around us.
