Through the Bible: ZephaniahSample

Confronting Complacency

I will sweep away everything from the face of the earth….At that time I will punish those who are complacent…who think “The Lord will do nothing, either good or bad.

Zephaniah 1:2a, 12 (NIV)

God sent Zephaniah to declare judgment on Judah, because of their rampant sin. He warned that the complacent will not enjoy the fruits of their labour. Nothing will be able to save them from total destruction.

Recently I asked some friends to imagine what we will be like at 80 years old. How can we finish well? Some focused on health or financial issues. But the most vigorous discussion was over Matthew 7:21-23, where Jesus declared that only those who do the will of the Father will enter heaven. Despite prophesying, casting out demons or performing miracles, all in the name of Jesus, on judgment day, Jesus pronounced: “I never knew you.”

My thoughts harkened back to Zephaniah and his warning against complacency. We may not turn our backs on God, like in Zephaniah’s day, but how on fire are we for Jesus? Do we finish well or lapse into complacency? How can we have a regular “complacency check”?

Prayer

Father God thanks for reminding us not to be complacent but instead to do Your will until we are called home. Help us not to slack off or lose focus. Give us the strength and courage to always stand up for You. In Jesus' name, Amen.