Judas was a complainer. Though Pilate could find no fault in Jesus, Judas did. Some are specialists at picking flaws. Life will be better if you refuse to hear them.

Refuse to hear the “daily downers.” Some thrive on complaints. They enjoy ill health and spread their contagion everywhere they go. Even God cannot please them and they spend their lives blind to His blessings. Though sometimes feigning spirituality, they know nothing of the Bible command to “do all things without murmurings and disputings” (Philippians 2:14). Their cups overflow — with vinegar.

Refuse to hear criticism of others. When hypercritical people find fault and gossip in your presence, tune them out. Change the subject. Inject conversation that fits Paul’s call for continual praise: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).

So, practice that delightful deafness that breaks the chain of criticism and complaining. If you have been the guilty one, confess this serious sin to the Lord and claim His forgiveness.

Weigh your words; they’ll be weighed again in judgment.