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from Joanna Complacency means one is marked by self-satisfaction especially when accompanied by unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies. — Mirriam-Webster God wants you to be aware of your surroundings. In our walk with God, we can become "comfortable" and mistake it for His peace. It's a dangerous place to be. It removes us from a state of being diligent in protecting our minds, families, and spiritual surroundings. During his (Jehoshaphat’s) reign, however, he failed to remove all the pagan shrines, and the people never fully committed themselves to follow the God of their ancestors. 2 Chronicles 20:33
When looking at 2 Chronicles 20:33, we see God lead His people to another miraculous victory. However, the heart and focus of the people never really shifted. Instead of releasing their lives to His direction and design, they stayed in the comfort of mediocrity. This kind of comfort with our surroundings can make us targets, and we can lose everything in one moment of ease. The enemy never stops watching us, always waiting for the opportunity to catch us off guard. It's as if everyone is inside just watching television or on their phones as the enemy lingers outside the window waiting to enter. He knows that He will catch you off guard because you are unprepared. You are comfortable. He knows we may leave a window open or a door unlocked. At that point, he slides in stealthily and attacks. How can a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word. Psalm 119:9
Don't let comfort ease you into a feeling of complacency. Always stand guard. Use your weapons of praise, prayer, and worship. So as we move into 2022, let's ask God where we should focus. With a devotion to prayer, worship, and Bible study, we can have a serious discussion with the Lord about how to approach the upcoming year. Consider asking God to show you any areas where you might have gotten too comfortable. Then, ask what you can do to fortify those points of entry into your life. If you haven’t already, check out the JSM Podcast from December 23 in the archive. Listen as Joanna and Ben discuss getting a focus for the year ahead.
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