Why Am I Complaining Instead of Praising God? (Ephesians 5:19–21 | KJV)

In today’s devotion, Pastor Roderick Webster challenges a habit that quietly steals our joy: complaining. From Ephesians 5, we’re reminded that a Spirit-filled life isn’t just about what we believe—it shows up in what comes out of our mouth: songs, praise, and thanksgiving.

Pastor Webster points us to powerful examples of praise under pressure—Moses and Israel singing after deliverance (Exodus 15:1–8) and Paul and Silas singing in prison (Acts 16:25)—and then brings the message home with a clear command:
“Giving thanks always for all things…” (Ephesians 5:20, KJV).

You’ll also hear three sobering “thanksgiving attitudes” from the Gospel of Luke:

1. The unthankful (entitled) heart — the rich farmer (Luke 12:16–21)

2. The hypocritical (self-righteous) heart — the Pharisee (Luke 18:9–14)

3. The truly thankful heart — the healed leper who returned (Luke 17:12–19)

This episode will help you check your spirit, reset your perspective, and choose worship over whining—because the Spirit-filled believer is marked by gratitude.

In this episode, you’ll reflect on:

• Why praise is for God’s children, not the world

• How complaining reveals what’s controlling the heart

• What Scripture teaches about gratitude that’s real (not religious)

• Why thanksgiving should be “always” and “for all things”

• How this connects to the next step: submission and humility (Ephesians 5:21)

Next in the series:
We move into Ephesians 5:21 and begin looking at what it means to submit with humility, and why God’s design includes rightful authority.

Scripture References (KJV):

• Ephesians 5:20–21

• Exodus 15:1–8

• Acts 16:25

• Luke 12:16–21

• Luke 18:9–14

• Luke 17:12–19

If this devotion encouraged you, share it with someone who needs a heart-reset today.