Today we will talk about bible verses about complaining. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. Complaining is a human response when things feel unfair, hard, or confusing. The Bible speaks clearly about murmuring, grumbling, disputing, and complaining — both warning us and teaching us how to respond better. As we read these scriptures, let us open our hearts and minds, ready to learn how God wants us to journey through trials with worship, trust, and patience rather than constant complaint. Together we will see examples from Israel in the wilderness, teachings of Jesus and the apostles, and encouragements toward gratitude and prayer. Let us read with humility and the desire to change, so that our words build up faith in us and in others. May these verses help us replace grumbling with praise, and help us respond to hardship with trust in God’s goodness.
Most Relevant Verse
“Do all things without murmurings and disputings: – Philippians 2:14“
Bible Verses About Complaining
Understanding Complaining: What It Is and How It Shows Up
When we explore Bible verses about complaining, we start by asking: what is complaining? As a group, we notice that complaining often shows itself as murmuring, grumbling, or speaking against God or leaders. It can come out loud or quietly in our hearts. When we complain we focus on what is wrong instead of what God has done or can do. We complain when we forget God’s past faithfulness, when we compare ourselves to others, or when pain and disappointment press hard on our hearts. In the Bible, complaining is sometimes linked to doubt and a lack of trust in God’s plans for us. We see that complaining tends to spread — one person’s murmur can become a group’s mood. The scriptures warn us because complaining can damage relationships, weaken faith, and even bring consequences. But the Bible also points us to better alternatives: prayer, patience, praise, and trusting God’s timing. As we read these Bible verses about complaining, let us remember that God knows our struggles. He invites us into honest conversation, not just grumbling. We can bring our needs and sorrow to Him in prayer, and seek community that listens, encourages, and points each other back to God. We can learn to name our pain without letting it define our words or actions. Together, by studying these Bible verses about complaining, we can learn to turn murmurs into faithful prayers and grumbling into grateful words.
Philippians 2:14
“Do all things without murmurings and disputings: – Philippians 2:14“
Jude 1:16
“These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration. – Jude 1:16“
John 6:41
“The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. – John 6:41“
Psalm 78:19
“Yea, they spake against God; they said, Can God furnish a table in the wilderness? – Psalm 78:19“
1 Corinthians 10:10
“Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. – 1 Corinthians 10:10“
Bible Verses About Complaining
Why God Hears Murmurs: God’s View and Warning
When we look at Bible verses about complaining, we see that God hears murmurs and often responds. The Bible shows that murmuring is not a small matter; it is an attitude that resists God’s provision and purpose. As we read these scriptures, we learn that God both disciplines and redirects — not out of harshness but because murmuring reveals a lack of trust. In the Old Testament, Israel’s complaints in the wilderness are recorded plainly. Those murmurs led to hardship, delay, and sometimes judgment. Yet the accounts are also meant to teach us. We, as God’s people now, are invited to take the warnings seriously and to consider how our words reflect our hearts. Complaining often masks other issues: fear, entitlement, or sinful desires. When we recognize this pattern in ourselves, we can bring it to God and ask for grace to trust Him more fully. These Bible verses about complaining help us see the heart behind the habit. They encourage us to be attentive to how we speak about our circumstances and how we respond when life is hard. God’s ideal is that our speech would be faithful, thankful, and steady, even amid trials. Let us receive the correction in love and let it shape how we walk with God and with one another.
Numbers 11:1
“And when the people complained, it displeased the LORD: and the LORD heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the LORD burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp. – Numbers 11:1“
Numbers 14:2
“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. – Numbers 14:2“
Numbers 14:27
“How long shall this wicked congregation murmur against me? and I have been provoked in them to say, – Numbers 14:27“
Exodus 16:8
“And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? – Exodus 16:8“
Psalm 106:25
“They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel: – Psalm 106:25“
Bible Verses About Complaining
Real Stories of Complaining: Israel in the Wilderness and What We Learn
The story of Israel’s time in the wilderness is full of examples used in Bible verses about complaining. As we read those accounts, we notice patterns that mirror our own moments of doubt. Israel had seen miracles — the plagues, the Exodus, the parted sea — yet when hunger or thirst came, murmurs rose quickly. This shows us how fragile faith can be in the moment of need. We, too, can forget God’s past help when present troubles press on our hearts. But these stories are not told just to shame; they teach us to remember, to trust, and to learn. The biblical authors include these events so we will not repeat the same errors. We learn that complaining often leads to more trouble: division, discipline, and missed blessings. Yet even in those stories, God continues to provide and to call His people back. In our lives, remembering God’s past faithfulness, practicing gratitude, and bringing honest concerns to God can prevent murmuring from taking root. Together, when we study Bible verses about complaining from Israel’s wilderness experience, we can be wiser — choosing faith over fret, prayer over grumble, and remembering that God’s care is constant even when our feelings change.
Exodus 17:2
“Therefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. And Moses said unto them, Why chide ye with me? wherefore do ye tempt the LORD? – Exodus 17:2“
Numbers 21:5
“And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no food and no water; and our soul loatheth this light bread. – Numbers 21:5“
Numbers 14:1
“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. – Numbers 14:1“
Psalm 78:17
“They sinned yet more against him by provoking the most High in the desert. – Psalm 78:17“
Psalm 95:8
“Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: – Psalm 95:8“
Bible Verses About Complaining
How Complaining Hurts Our Walk with God and With Others
As we read Bible verses about complaining, we see how grumbling damages both our relationship with God and our relationships with people. Complaints often create resentment, suspicion, or division. When we murmur, trust can erode — we question God’s goodness, and we may also undermine leaders or friends who are trying to help. The Bible cautions us because words shape communities: repeated complaints can become a culture of negativity that steals hope. We, as believers, are called to build up one another and to reflect God’s character. That means choosing speech that heals, not harms. Turning complaints into constructive conversation is part of spiritual maturity: we can honestly name problems but do so in ways that seek solutions and honor God. The scriptures remind us to judge our motives — are we seeking attention, stirring strife, or truly seeking resolution? We can practice gratitude, honest prayer, and humble correction instead of constant murmur. These Bible verses about complaining help us understand the costs of our words and encourage us to speak life, to support leaders, and to be a people who trust God even when the path is hard.
Matthew 20:11
“And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house, – Matthew 20:11“
Matthew 20:12
“Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day. – Matthew 20:12“
Acts 6:1
“And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. – Acts 6:1“
Jude 1:16
“These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration. – Jude 1:16“
1 Peter 4:9
“Use hospitality one to another without grudging. – 1 Peter 4:9“
Bible Verses About Complaining
Alternatives to Complaining: Prayer, Praise, and Thanksgiving
When we feel like complaining, the Bible gives us powerful, practical alternatives. Instead of grumbling, we can pray — bringing our worries and questions to God in honesty. Instead of focusing on lack, we can praise God for what He has done, remembering past faithfulness. The Scriptures encourage thanksgiving as a cure for a complaining spirit, because gratitude reorients our hearts to God’s goodness. We, as a community, can practice these alternatives together: pray for one another, tell stories of God’s help, and sing praises even in hard times. Philippians and other New Testament writers point us toward rejoicing and prayer rather than murmuring. When we make thanksgiving a habit, complaints lose their grip. This doesn’t mean denying pain; it means holding pain and hope together — we bring our honest hurts to God and also remember His presence and promises. These Bible verses about complaining help train our tongues and shape a thankful life that trusts God’s care and chooses hopeful speech.
Philippians 4:6
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. – Philippians 4:6“
Psalm 100:4
“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. – Psalm 100:4“
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18“
Psalms 34:1
“I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. – Psalms 34:1“
Colossians 3:15
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. – Colossians 3:15“
Bible Verses About Complaining
When Complaining Masks Deeper Issues: Sin, Fear, and Selfishness
Sometimes, when we complain we are actually expressing deeper struggles: fear, pride, or selfish desires. The Bible verses about complaining show us how murmuring can point to these root problems. For example, when Israel complained about food or water, it often revealed a lack of trust or an appetite for something other than God. The prophets and apostles remind us to examine our hearts — are we seeking our comfort above God’s will? Are we afraid of change so we grumble instead of stepping forward in faith? As a community, we can help one another see beneath words of complaint and gently ask: what is the real need here? That kind of loving honesty can lead to repentance, healing, and growth. Rather than letting complaints fester, we can face the underlying issues with prayer, wise counsel, and Scripture. These Bible verses about complaining help us name the deeper struggles and turn toward God for transformation. When we do, complaining gives way to confession, and fear yields to faith.
Deuteronomy 1:27
“Wherefore ye have been rebellious against the LORD from the day that I knew you. – Deuteronomy 1:27“
Deuteronomy 9:7
“Remember, and forget not, how thou provokedst the LORD thy God to wrath in the wilderness: from the day that thou didst depart out of the land of Egypt, until ye came unto this place, ye have been rebellious against the LORD. – Deuteronomy 9:7“
Numbers 16:11
“And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, – Numbers 16:11“
Numbers 16:41
“And it came to pass, when the congregation was gathered against Moses and against Aaron, that they looked toward the tabernacle of the congregation: and, behold, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the LORD appeared. – Numbers 16:41“
Psalm 106:25
“They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel: – Psalm 106:25“
Bible Verses About Complaining
Leaders, Conflict, and Complaints in the Church
Many Bible verses about complaining address situations in communities and churches. Complaints can surface about leaders, distribution of resources, or perceived unfairness. The New Testament gives practical guidance: bring concerns to leaders respectfully, seek reconciliation, and avoid divisive gossip. Acts shows a real church conflict when some felt neglected; the apostles responded by creating wise, fair solutions rather than ignoring the murmurs. In our congregations, complaints can be an opportunity to serve better, to correct mistakes, and to grow healthy systems. But unchecked murmuring can also harm the body. We must be careful to distinguish between sinful grumbling and faithful correction. God calls leaders to shepherd gently and the church to respond with humility. These Bible verses about complaining teach us how to manage disputes — with prayerful listening, clear action, and mutual respect. When we handle complaints God’s way, the church becomes stronger and more loving.
Acts 6:1
“And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. – Acts 6:1“
Philippians 2:14
“Do all things without murmurings and disputings: – Philippians 2:14“
1 Timothy 5:19
“Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. – 1 Timothy 5:19“
Matthew 20:11
“And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house, – Matthew 20:11“
James 5:9
“Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. – James 5:9“
Bible Verses About Complaining
God’s Provision vs. Our Complaints: Trusting When Needs Arise
Many Bible verses about complaining contrast God’s provision with man’s doubt. Time and again, God provided for His people — manna by day, water from the rock, protection from enemies — yet people still complained. These stories remind us to look for God’s hand at work rather than fixating on what’s missing. When we face shortages, unmet expectations, or painful trials, we can remember the ways God has provided before. This helps us shift from a heart of complaint to a heart of trust. Practically, we can list God’s past works, pray for provision, and help one another notice small mercies. This posture won’t always remove the hardship, but it steadies our faith and shapes thankful speech. These Bible verses about complaining encourage us to trust God’s timing and care, recognizing that the God who provides in small and large ways is with us now.
Exodus 16:8
“And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? – Exodus 16:8“
Psalm 78:20
“Yea, they tempted and provoked the most High God, and kept not his testimonies: – Psalm 78:20“
John 6:43
“Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves. – John 6:43“
Numbers 11:1
“And when the people complained, it displeased the LORD: and the LORD heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the LORD burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp. – Numbers 11:1“
Psalm 107:9
“For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. – Psalm 107:9“
Bible Verses About Complaining
Responding to Hardship Without Complaining: Patience and Hope
Hard times tempt us to complain, but the Bible urges patience and hope instead. Scripture encourages us to persevere, to wait on the Lord, and to trust His timing. Complaining can be a short-term release, but patience builds character and hope. When we study Bible verses about complaining, we learn practical habits: pray steadily, remember God’s promises, and support one another in suffering. Hope keeps our speech centered on God’s future goodness, not just current pain. We also learn that patience doesn’t mean passivity: it can include faithful action, wise steps, and humble waiting. As a community, we can encourage endurance by sharing testimonies, praying together, and loving one another in concrete ways. The Bible’s call to patience reshapes our responses so that complaints give way to steadfast trust and hopeful words.
Hebrews 3:8
“Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: – Hebrews 3:8“
Hebrews 3:16
“For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. – Hebrews 3:16“
Romans 5:3-4
“And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; – Romans 5:3-4“
James 1:2-3
“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. – James 1:2-3“
1 Peter 5:7
“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. – 1 Peter 5:7“
Bible Verses About Complaining
Practical Steps: How We Change from Complaining to Constructive Faith
Finally, Bible verses about complaining guide us toward practical change. We can replace grumbling with gratitude, prayer, service, and truthful but loving conversation. First, we admit our complaints honestly before God. Second, we bring them to trusted friends or leaders in a spirit of humility, seeking resolution rather than victory in argument. Third, we practice thankful speech daily, listing blessings and praising God. Fourth, we act — serve those affected, help fix problems, or change habits that fuel complaint. The Bible shows us that change is possible: a heart shaped by Scripture speaks life and hope. As a group, we can implement practices: regular prayer meetings, thankfulness journals, and gentle accountability. These steps help the words of complaint become seeds of faith and practical solutions. Through Bible verses about complaining, we are encouraged that growth is a journey; with God’s help, our words can heal and strengthen rather than tear down.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. – Philippians 4:6-7“
Colossians 3:13
“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. – Colossians 3:13“
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. – Ephesians 4:29“
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11“
Romans 12:12
“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; – Romans 12:12“
Final Thoughts
I have enjoyed walking through these Bible verses about complaining with you. We have looked at warnings, examples, and practical alternatives. When we study Scripture together, we learn how God wants our words to reflect trust, gratitude, and grace rather than constant grievance.
We can change our habits: bring complaints to God in prayer, choose praise, and speak in ways that build up others. The Bible shows us both the cost of murmuring and the blessing of faithful speech. Let us encourage one another to practice patience and thanksgiving, turning grumbles into prayers and service.
As we go forward, may we be people whose speech points to God’s goodness. Let us listen well, pray boldly, and speak kindly — trusting that God hears even our honest concerns and will lead us into deeper faith.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
Bible Commentary, Blog
50 Important bible verses on laziness (With Explanation)