To vent or not to vent?

Occasionally in life we may have to stop and wonder whether or not something is sinful, especially when we feel it is something so normal. One such area is complaining. Our human nature tells us we must vent our frustrations and I think that can definitely be healthy but at what point does it become sinful. A close friend and I were discussing this recently and it really made me stop and think. I really like to share my frustrations with those closest to me, the reason? Maybe I like to get feedback or maybe it just feels good to whine for a little bit. However, 1 Corinthians 10:24 says, “Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.” You could apply that verse in this way, when you are complaining or venting is it bashing the person you are complaining about? Does complaining lift up anyone or is it good for anyone aside from yourself?  How you answer these questions would help to determine if what you are doing is sinful or not. Verse 32 says, “Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God--” Consider these questions. Does your complaining cause another to stumble? Does your venting turn into a gossip session? I’ll leave you with this verse to get your wheels turning. “Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged.” –James 5:9 

I just want to add a side note and say, I, too, complain and I find myself wondering if I am guilty of a sin because of it. I am not approaching this with a self-righteous attitude. Nor am I saying that I will never again express my frustrations. What I am saying is that the next time I start airing out my tensions, I will try to make sure it doesn’t amount to just another gossip session. I encourage you to do the same.

May Christ’s love and blessings be upon you and yours.