Turning Whining into Worship

“Complaining is worship in reverse.” – Brandon Robinson

I have only been a pastor for three and a half years, but I’ve been in ministry for 38 years and counting. Over those almost four decades of ministering to prisoners, at-risk youth, and a mostly elderly church congregation, I have learned a lot of valuable lessons.

First, don’t go into full-time ministry if you want to get rich. In fact, financial struggles often go hand-in-hand with ministry, especially if you are a missionary like me who is required to raise my own support.

Second, you will hear a lot more complaints than you do compliments. That was especially true during my 35-year career as a prison minister. Thankfully, the congregation at Midway Bible Fellowship really seems to like me (maybe because I’m married to Deanna), and they are quick to thank me for a well-delivered sermon every Sunday morning.

No pastor worth his salt goes fishing for compliments. After all, he should be preaching to please an audience of One. That being said, a sincere “Good message, pastor” goes a long way. So does a hearty “Amen” or two during the service.

Complaining does the exact opposite. Not only does it negatively impact the person you’re griping about, but it shows a complete lack of faith in God’s goodness, providence, and sovereignty.

It’s far better to focus on the positive things in life while spending our time and energy building people up instead of tearing them down.

Let’s turn our whining into worship!

“And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (BSB)

- Rev. Dale M. Glading, President