CURVING COMPLAINTS - “Turning Complaints Into Solutions” 

TEXT: Matthew 12:34ff

Once I curb complaints, I can begin the positive process of curving my complaints into helpful solutions which will impact my life and the lives of others.

In Matthew 34, Jesus taught: From a negative heart overflows negative words which become negative actions resulting in a miserable life

Turn it around and what do you have?

From a positive heart overflows positive words which become positive actions resulting in a fulfilling life.

1) From a positive heart

“My __________________ reveal the condition of my heart.”         

Examine your thought pattern first

Then examine your speech pattern

2) With positive words

My ___________________ reveal the condition of my heart.

Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. (Col. 4:6)

3) Which become positive actions

My ___________________ reveal the condition of my heart.

There is such a thing as unconstructive complaining and constructive complaining.

Unconstructive: Complain about what bugs you the most
Constructive: Complain about right _________________(injustices, social problems)

Unconstructive: Complain when you feel the most annoyed
Constructive: Complain at the right ________________

Unconstructive: Complain to whoever will listen
Constructive: Complain to someone who can do something about it

Unconstructive: Seek blame
Constructive: Seek ___________________

Jesus taught us how to deal with another believer who offends you.

He said: "If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the fault. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. (Matthew 18:15)

- We are to keep it to just ourselves and the person involved.

- When we go, go with the attitude of finding a positive solution.

- Go with a meek and humble spirit.

- Give the person the benefit of the doubt and actually listen to his / her answers.

Unconstructive: Point fingers.
Constructive: Look at yourself first.

Before complaining about others, make sure you know what your role in the issue is.

Unconstructive: Only complain
Constructive: Also appreciate what’s good

- My thoughts reveal the condition of my heart

- My words reveal the condition of my heart.

- My actions reveal the condition of my heart.

From a positive heart overflows positive words which become positive actions resulting in a fulfilling life.

4) Results in a fulfilling life

My ______________________ reveals the condition of my heart.

Jesus said, “I have come that you may have life and have it more abundantly” (Jn. 10:10)

It doesn’t mean you can’t be sad about your circumstances.  It doesn’t mean you can’t express your emotions - anger, frustration, disappointment. You are simply going to refuse to let that spirit of negativity rule your heart and life.

Instead you must curve complaints by turning complaint into solutions.