Positive economic experiences are, many times if not most times, the by-products of positive communications. Whether business-to-customer or business-to-business, affirming human communication is important. Such interaction occurs when people speak positive words not negative words, such as grumbling.

The above scripture warns us not to grumble against one another, and to strengthen the admonition James, the writer of the epistle, pointed out that we will be held accountable for our words.

Our words reveal our heart attitude (Matthew 12:34). Grumbling reveals a malcontent attitude that denies the goodness and faithfulness of God in our lives. Christians are called to live meekly before God. Consider more of James' instructions:

Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. (James 1:21 ESV)

The implanted word is a reference to the Holy Spirit's regenerating work, which brings life through the implantation of Christ's truth in us (Colossians 1:27). Our responsibility is to receive with an attitude of meekness this truth as a gift from God. According to Vine’s Expository Dictionary, meekness is “ that temper of spirit in which we accept His (God’s) dealings with us as good, and therefore without disputing or resisting.” In other words, we should view all events in life—even painful events—with the attitude that God will redemptively work good, regardless of the circumstances. Grumbling reflects doubt about God's veracity, a lack of faith in God, and resistance toward God. It reveals discontent and dissatisfaction with God. In other words, Grumbling reveals a lack of meekness.

Living in a fallen world means that everyone faces trials and tribulations. Circumstances can seem cruel and unfair. The cause of these circumstances is often people and events outside of our control. The question is, how will we respond? Will we grumble and complain, or will we respond meekly? And in particular, will we respond meekly if the challenge is from fellow Christians?

A natural response to the difficulties of life seems to be grumbling. Grumbling presumes our innocence; therefore, we blame others for our difficulties. Instead we should be taking responsibility; God will hold us accountable. Blaming others did not work for Adam and Eve (Genesis 3); it will not work for us. We will be held accountable for our choices. This alone should put the fear of God in us.

Scripture informs us that God is always working in every situation to transform us into alignment with himself (James 1:2). No matter how difficult people and/or circumstances may be, the right practice is always to respond meekly with contentment and gratitude.

Here is your business tip. Leaders and managers should model for all organizational stakeholders a life of meekness expressed by the proper use of the tongue. Organizational cultures populated with people prone to grumble against one another will be toxic. But organizational cultures built with people who are meek will be healthy. The difference is that grumbling against one another reflects discontentment with and lack of gratitude toward God, but meekness reflects contentment with and gratitude toward God. One of the marks of excellent, enduring, and productive organizations will be a culture of meekness that will facilitate the delivery of world-class value.