We all want to prosper and increase. We want to do better. We want promotions so that we can make more money to take care of our families. As humans, we appreciate being recognized for our actions and accomplishments. However, most people do not like the issues, problems, side effects and reactions that occur as we increase, get promoted, advance, gain greater influence, etc. Someone once told me “greater levels, greater devils.” He meant that when you grow in influence, the attacks and challenges will also increase. A good example is found in Acts 6:1: “But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food”. Notice how in the midst of a young, growing, Spirit-filled church, complaints arose, and there arose a discontent. This happens everywhere where growing numbers of people exist. This even happened in Moses’ day. There were rumblings of discontent and complaints. As long as you are working with people, get used to the idea that you will hear complaints and rumblings of discontent. The issue isn’t whether or not you’re going to get complaints, the issue is how you respond to the complaints. Moses allowed the people to get him angry, and in his anger he responded in a way that displeased the Lord. Because of that, he could not enter into the promised land. Conversely, when the Apostles heard about the complaints, they worked with the congregation to address the issues at hand, and they continued to focus on their ministry. Has your focus been distracted by the complaints and criticisms of those around you? Remember, what you focus on expands and grows in influence. Today, determine to focus on the right thing. It can be the difference between true success, or disappointment and failure.
Acts 6:1 “But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food”.
