Last week, my Bible reading schedule took me to the book of Amos. These words caught my attention:
Amos 6:1 (NIV)
Woe to you who are complacent …
“Complacent” — per my dictionary, satisfied with the status quo, pleased with oneself, smug, unaware of fault or potential danger.
My first reaction was “not me.” Then I thought about my cozy home, my reliable car, the job I mostly enjoy, my friends and family. Am I satisfied with the status quo? You bet.
Woe is me!
Good morning, Lord. It’s easy to be so comfortable in my own situation that I fail to see and serve the needs of others — forgive me. I take pride in what I have and fail to give You credit for my many blessings — forgive me. I think that somehow I am more deserving than others — forgive me. Change me, dear Jesus, to be more like You: kind, compassionate, patient and loving.
I enjoy my comfort but never take it for granted. I know it can be gone in an instant. Thank you Lord for providing for me as you do the sparrows. I am grateful I can share that provision with others. May my heart always be open to others and their needs. Amen
One day last week, I don’t actually remember the situation, but I do remember I was “pity partying” over something. Out of the blue, I felt convicted as my inner voice said, “There’s a BIG difference between NEED and WANT!” I felt ashamed because I had to admit I’m truely BLESSED; I may not have everything I want, but GOD provides my daily NEEDS, plus plenty of extras!