“For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them;”
One ancient theologian believes this passage teaches an upside down view of the impact of adversity and the complacency of plenty. I agree. We endure adversity but we are corrupted by prosperity. Adversity causes us to work hard, trust deeply and walk boldly to survive and from it we become stronger and wiser. Prosperity can make us lazy and self absorbed with an overindulgence in undeserved relaxation and recreation. Both of which can make us soft and lazy. The simple are those who ignore the opportunity to dive deeply into God’s wisdom and walk with a sense of calling that leads to effort and growth. We have all seen both. In the end even the one who works hard comes up short if their work is centered in creating a life of luxury and leasure. There is nothing biblically wrong with the accumulation of comfort in our lives as long as we are not controlled by it. It is a wonderful blessing when the God follower achieves a place of stability that gives seasons of rest, relaxation and recreation. Jesus, in the original language, in Matthew, tells us exactly that. If we come to Him then He will provide His “rest, relaxation and recreation.” So waywardness kills. Complacency destroys and Jesus revives and refreshes. Not a difficult choice. Today choose wisely. #BeTheEdge
“ Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus
