Complaining is like a subtle toxin—harmless at first glance but deeply corrosive to the soul.
It can creep into our hearts, turning gratitude into bitterness and blinding us to God’s blessings.
The Bible addresses complaining not merely as a bad habit but as a reflection of a heart that struggles to trust in God’s provision and plan.
Complaining drains our joy and reveals a deeper issue: dissatisfaction with what God has already provided.
These 30 verses invite us to step back, examine the root of our complaints, and replace grumbling with gratitude.
Let’s explore what Scripture teaches about the dangers of complaining and how we can cultivate a spirit of thankfulness instead.
Bible Verses About Complaining
1. Philippians 2:14-15
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”
This verse urges believers to live without grumbling, reminding us that such behavior sets us apart as children of God.
It teaches us that avoiding complaints allows our light to shine for Christ. A grateful and cooperative spirit reflects God’s love and grace to the world.
2. Numbers 11:1
“Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the Lord, and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the Lord burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp.”
This verse recounts the Israelites’ complaints during their journey in the wilderness, showing how their grumbling angered God.
It reminds us that complaining reflects distrust in God’s provision. Choosing gratitude instead honors Him and invites His blessings.
3. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
This verse encourages gratitude in every situation, regardless of how difficult it may seem.
It teaches us that thankfulness shifts our focus from problems to God’s faithfulness. Replacing complaints with gratitude brings peace and aligns us with His will.
4. Exodus 16:8
“Moses also said, ‘You will know that it was the Lord when he gives you meat to eat in the evening and all the bread you want in the morning, because he has heard your grumbling against him. Who are we? You are not grumbling against us, but against the Lord.’”
This verse highlights that the Israelites’ complaints about their leaders were ultimately directed at God.
It reminds us that complaining about circumstances often reflects discontent with God’s provision. Trusting His plan allows us to live with peace and gratitude.
5. James 5:9
“Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!”
This verse warns against complaining about others, emphasizing that such behavior invites God’s judgment.
It teaches us to approach relationships with grace and patience. Avoiding grumbling fosters unity and honors God’s call to love one another.
6. Psalm 106:25
“They grumbled in their tents and did not obey the Lord.”
This verse reflects on the Israelites’ disobedience and complaints, highlighting their lack of trust in God’s commands.
It reminds us that grumbling often leads to disobedience. A heart focused on God’s faithfulness chooses gratitude over complaints.
7. Proverbs 21:19
“Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and nagging wife.”
This verse uses vivid imagery to illustrate the weariness caused by constant complaining or nagging.
It teaches us that habitual grumbling creates tension and strife. Choosing uplifting words builds stronger relationships and reflects God’s peace.
8. Exodus 14:11
“They said to Moses, ‘Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt?’”
This verse captures the Israelites’ complaints despite God’s miraculous deliverance from slavery in Egypt.
It reminds us that focusing on difficulties blinds us to God’s blessings. Trusting Him transforms complaints into gratitude for His provision.
9. Job 10:1
“I loathe my very life; therefore I will give free rein to my complaint and speak out in the bitterness of my soul.”
This verse reflects Job’s raw honesty during his suffering, highlighting the depth of his struggle.
It teaches us that while God welcomes our honesty, dwelling in bitterness can hinder healing. Surrendering our pain to Him brings restoration and peace.
10. John 6:43
“‘Stop grumbling among yourselves,’ Jesus answered.”
This verse captures Jesus addressing the grumbling of the crowd as they questioned His teachings.
It reminds us that complaining often reflects a lack of understanding or trust. Seeking God’s perspective silences our grumbling and aligns us with His truth.
11. Psalm 77:3
“I remembered you, God, and I groaned; I meditated, and my spirit grew faint.”
This verse illustrates how even in the midst of reflection on God, groaning or complaining can emerge from a troubled heart.
It teaches us that dwelling on difficulties without surrendering them to God drains our spirit. Turning our groaning into prayer allows God to renew our strength.
12. Lamentations 3:39
“Why should the living complain when punished for their sins?”
This verse challenges the tendency to grumble when facing the consequences of sin. It emphasizes accountability and repentance.
It reminds us that instead of complaining, we should seek God’s mercy and forgiveness, trusting in His grace to restore us.
13. Philippians 4:11-12
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.”
This verse reflects Paul’s contentment in all situations, showing that gratitude can replace complaints.
It teaches us that contentment is learned through reliance on God. Trusting Him helps us resist the urge to complain and embrace peace.
14. Numbers 14:27
“‘How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites.’”
This verse captures God’s frustration with the Israelites’ constant complaints, despite His provision and guidance.
It reminds us that complaining shows a lack of trust in God’s plan. Gratitude aligns our hearts with His purposes.
15. Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
This verse challenges us to speak words that edify rather than complain or criticize.
It teaches us that speaking positively builds others up and fosters unity. Avoiding complaints reflects a heart transformed by God’s love.
16. Psalm 142:2
“I pour out before him my complaint; before him I tell my trouble.”
This verse demonstrates that while it is natural to express struggles, they should be brought before God in prayer.
It reminds us that God welcomes our honesty and desires to help us. Turning complaints into prayers deepens our relationship with Him.
17. 1 Corinthians 10:10
“And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel.”
This verse references the Israelites’ grumbling as a warning against discontent and rebellion.
It teaches us that complaining can lead to spiritual consequences. Trusting God’s provision fosters faith and contentment.
18. Luke 5:30
“But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to his disciples, ‘Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?’”
This verse highlights the Pharisees’ complaints about Jesus’ inclusive ministry, reflecting their judgmental attitudes.
It reminds us that complaining often stems from a lack of understanding or compassion. Choosing grace over grumbling honors God’s heart for others.
19. Isaiah 29:24
“Those who are wayward in spirit will gain understanding; those who complain will accept instruction.”
This verse offers hope that even those who complain can learn and grow through God’s guidance.
It teaches us that humility and a willingness to learn transform our attitudes. Embracing God’s instruction replaces complaints with wisdom.
20. Exodus 15:24
“So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, ‘What are we to drink?’”
This verse captures the Israelites’ immediate complaints after being delivered from Egypt, showing their lack of faith in God’s provision.
It reminds us that focusing on needs rather than God’s faithfulness leads to grumbling. Trusting His provision transforms our perspective.
21. James 1:2-3
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
This verse challenges us to view trials with joy, recognizing their role in spiritual growth.
It teaches us that trials are opportunities for faith to deepen. Replacing complaints with joy strengthens our character and draws us closer to God.
22. Psalm 37:7
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.”
This verse urges patience and trust in God rather than fretting or complaining about others’ actions.
It reminds us that waiting on God with trust eliminates the need for grumbling. His justice and timing are perfect.
23. Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”
This verse ties contentment to God’s constant presence and faithfulness.
It teaches us that recognizing God’s provision helps us let go of complaints. Contentment in Him leads to peace and gratitude.
24. Psalm 55:17
“Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.”
This verse shows that God listens to our cries, inviting us to bring our burdens to Him.
It reminds us that prayer is a better response to struggles than complaining. Seeking God’s help brings comfort and resolution.
25. Job 7:11
“Therefore I will not keep silent; I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit, I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.”
This verse reflects Job’s raw honesty in his suffering, showing that God allows space for expression.
It teaches us that while it’s okay to voice our struggles, we should not remain in bitterness. Turning to God allows Him to restore our spirit.
26. Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
This verse reminds us that God can bring good even from challenging circumstances, eliminating the need for complaints.
It teaches us to trust in God’s sovereignty and His ability to use every situation for our growth. Complaints dissolve when we focus on His purpose.
27. Psalm 119:71
“It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.”
This verse reflects on how hardships can lead to spiritual growth and deeper understanding of God’s Word.
It reminds us that trials often teach valuable lessons. Viewing difficulties as opportunities for growth shifts our focus from complaints to gratitude.
28. Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
This verse encourages patience and forgiveness instead of complaining about others’ faults.
It teaches us that extending grace reflects God’s love. Complaining less about others and forgiving more brings harmony and peace.
29. Psalm 103:2
“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
This verse calls us to focus on God’s blessings rather than dwelling on complaints.
It reminds us that gratitude for God’s goodness transforms our outlook. Remembering His faithfulness silences grumbling and stirs praise.
30. Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This verse promises renewed strength for those who place their hope in God instead of giving in to complaints or despair.
It teaches us that trusting in God’s timing and provision brings refreshment and perseverance. A heart anchored in Him finds no reason to grumble.
Our Thoughts on What the Bible Says About Complaining
Complaining, as revealed in Scripture, is more than just a passing expression of frustration—it reflects a deeper struggle with trust and contentment.
These 30 verses emphasize that grumbling often blinds us to God’s blessings and provision.
Complaints reveal a heart focused on circumstances rather than the unchanging faithfulness of God.
However, the Bible also offers a way forward: gratitude, prayer, and trust.
By choosing to focus on God’s goodness, we can silence the grumbling in our hearts and instead fill our lives with thanksgiving.
Let these verses encourage you to turn complaints into prayers and cultivate a spirit of gratitude, knowing that God is working in all things for your good.
Trusting Him transforms dissatisfaction into peace and joy.