When we’re shaken by the circumstances around us, our first instinct can sometimes be to criticize or complain. We might find ourselves exploding with rage instead of praying for peace.

It’s okay to get frustrated when life feels unfair or out of control. It’s okay (and encouraged) to bring your cares and concerns before God and to share them with other trusted friends in your life (see 1 Peter 5:7 and Galatians 6:2). But there’s a fine line between carrying a burden and carrying bitterness. 

When we’re angered by the words or actions of others, it’s tempting to complain about them and criticize them. But our criticism rarely improves the situation. Instead, it often poisons our souls and prevents us from finding solutions.