"The people fell to grumbling over their hard life. God heard. When he heard his anger flared, then fire blazed up and burned the outer boundaries of the camp. The people cried out for help to Moses; Moses prayed to God, and the fire died down. They named the place Taberah (Blaze) because fire from God had blazed up against them. The misfits among the people had a craving, and soon they had the People of Israel whining, "Why can't we have meat? We ate fish in Egypt—and got it free!—to say nothing of the cucumbers and melons, the leeks and onions and garlic. But nothing tastes good out here; all we get is manna, manna, manna." Numbers 11:1-6

Years ago, my husband became very ill. A major contributor to his recovery was understanding and reconciling the severe food sensitivities that were making him sick. I vividly recall walking into the kitchen one day. There he stood with a defeated, blank look on his face as he stared indifferently into the refrigerator. "What's wrong?" I asked him. He looked at me with despair and said, "All I see is what I can't eat." It was a heartbreaking moment but sparked a conversation we refer to still. The reality of his healing journey meant there would be certain foods he could not have. He could choose to focus on those select few restrictions and complain, shake his fists and cry, "Why can't I have this?" Or he could shift his mindset and focus on all the many foods he could eat. The Lord provided much for him to choose from – far more than the few causing him harm.

Easy to say, but as I drove past a fit and fabulous-looking woman jogging down the street like a gazelle a couple of weeks later. I found myself crying out, "Lord! Why can't I run anymore? I love running. Why can she run so comfortably, and I can’t?" The irony was not lost on me. At that moment, the Lord gently whispered to my heart with the comforting reminder and encouragement I'd offered my husband days earlier. "Sarah," the Lord said, "Think of all your body can do, and be thankful." We're faced with this choice over and over in this life, aren't we?

The Lord abundantly heaps blessings on us. He provides for our every need. He lavishly pours out from His glorious riches to grant the desires of our hearts. Yet, how often do we find ourselves grumbling with crossed arms and furrowed brows whining to Him about what we lack? Today, I encourage you to pause and take inventory of all that is available to you. When we notice our blessings, our gratitude grows. When we look for the Lord's providence and provision, we gain peace and contentment. Intentional, purposeful attention to our gifts is the cure for grumbling. Today, if you're tempted to complain about your cant's, refocus on the God who can. He is worthy. Amen?