We’ve all heard it—or uttered similar words ourselves. It’s too hot. It’s too cold. Why does my neighbor play that kind of music? Is it even music? When will my nephew grow up and behave like a real man? And so on and so on.

Reality is, we human beings are more than capable of finding something—usually without looking too far—to whine about. For some folks, this kind of behavior seems to take precedence over everything else. One of the problems with whining is that it is usually not helpful for problem resolution or peace of mind and heart. On the other hand, some would say a good whine can be healthy for body, mind, and spirit. Okay. However, if we allow our behavior to make things miserable for others, we may cross the line in ways that are unloving and unhealthy.

To lament rather than whine is to take an entirely different approach to deal with all the mess and yuck of our unsettled, upside down world. A true lament-er speaks, or ponders and prays about issues and concerns from the perspective of sharing one’s heart with the Lord. One beautiful example is the Wailing Wall—not the whining wall—in Jerusalem. Interestingly enough, ‘wail’ is in the definition of lament.

If we couch our complaints in ‘whine sessions’, we tend to vent—yes, even in subtle tones—about all that annoys or disturbs us. We also tend to let it stop there. Whine. Let our perspective be known. And then at some point later on, return to the same mutters and grumbles.

The good news is if we couch our complaints in ‘lament sessions’, we tend to vent—yes, even in subtle tones—about all that annoys or disturbs us. However, the major difference is that our focus is on pouring out our heart to God. Beneath all our unsettledness we seek to be known by the Divine for the purpose of being open, honest, and vulnerable about what troubles us.

When I am tempted to throw my hands in the air and whine about anything or anyone, I have come to realize the best choice I can make is to dive into the Psalms sooner rather than later. What better example could we have of a person determined to trust and follow God than David? This humble man cut to the core on every concern he encountered, yet never hesitated to let his feelings and thoughts be known to the Divine. [No pun intended, the book of Lamentations is also an excellent resource.]

A few examples of David’s honesty and vulnerability with the Lord. . .

You listen, Lord, to the needs of the poor; you strengthen their heart and incline your ear. [Psalm 10:17]

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The Lord is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid? [Psalm 27:1]

My Lord, my deepest yearning is before you; my groaning is not hidden from you. My heart shudders, my strength forsakes me; the very light of my eyes has failed. [Psalm 38:10-11]

Praise the LORD, all you nations! Extol him, all you peoples! His mercy for us is strong; the faithfulness of the Lord is forever. Hallelujah! [Psalm 117:1-2]

May we be as faithful to air our complaints to a God who welcomes us with open arms. His love, mercy, and blessings await.

Do I tend to whine, or lament?

How do I feel about drawing nearer to God in lament?

Am I open to being more vulnerable with the Lord about my cares and concerns?