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Ever since I committed to walking/talking Philippians 2:14 ("Do everything without complaining or arguing"), it seems every waking moment has been a test for me to blow it --- in a big way. Little things and medium things - thank God, nothing earth-shattering... but a litany of life leeches that daily bleed you to death!
About 3 o'clock yesterday, a work incident that had been simmering all day finally boiled over into a full-blown fire drill. By the time I left the office, the stress was churning inside me like hot lava waiting to explode. Can I tell you how tempted I was to make a mega "commuter call of colossal complaining" to just about anyone on my speed dial who would listen??? As I glanced over at my cell phone, beckoning me from my purse as I pulled onto the turnpike, I heard that still, small voice...
"So Linda, having a bad day?" "Lord, it was awful. Okay, it wasn't life-threatening, and I know there are millions of people with bigger problems, but it was a really crazy pressure cooker day and frankly, I just want to pull over and cry my eyes out".

"Wanna talk about it?" he asked, as I almost physically felt His loving arm around me. Deep breath... "Yes, Lord, I really do. Do you have a minute?" "Linda, I have all of eternity for you."

So... I began to cry out to Him, spilling all the details, my frustrations, my aggravations, and yes, even my complaints. I asked him how to deal with this person, how to handle that situation, and just emptied myself before Him.

You know what? It worked. He listened to every word I said, intently. He didn't laugh at me, didn't chide me for being petty, didn't judge me, just listened. And loved. At one point, in my animated banter, I even wound up laughing (I'm hoping my fellow commuters thought I was on my cell phone). He brought Scripture verses and principles to mind, to help me grow in the situation, to be a light in a dark place, and to honor Him through it all.

By the time I was done, there was inside me restored calm and peace instead of a volcano of bitterness and frustration. I felt refreshed and renewed... I'm telling you, it was better than a spa day.

Psalm 142:1-2 is a beautiful companion Scripture for Philippians 2:14. This Old Testament verse is foundational in obeying this New Testament command. He's not telling us to stuff it and explode; He's telling us to come to Him. Our Jesus, always with arms wide open, calling us to Him -- Matthew 11:28 immediately springs to mind: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

"Refreshment in Refuge" from Gina Burgess

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