How can we ensure we are not among those who "say, 'Disaster will not overtake'"? The Sobering Warning from Amos 9:10 “All the sinners among My people will die by the sword—all those who say, ‘Disaster will never draw near or confront us.’ ” (Amos 9:10) Understanding the Attitude God Condemns • Presumption—assuming God will never judge • Complacency—settling into sin without repentance • Selective hearing—dismissing prophetic warnings that unsettle our comfort (cf. 2 Peter 3:3-4) Practical Steps to Guard Our Hearts • Examine ourselves regularly – “Test yourselves to see whether you are in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5). – Ask, “Am I excusing anything God calls sin?” • Stay alert to Scripture – Daily intake of God’s Word keeps us from drifting (Hebrews 2:1). – Let the whole counsel of God, not just encouraging passages, shape us (Acts 20:27). • Cultivate holy fear, not paralyzing dread – “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). – Fear here is reverent awe that moves us to obedience, not terror that drives us from God. • Confess and repent quickly – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9). – Repentance is ongoing; it keeps the heart soft (Hebrews 3:12-13). • Seek accountability – Walk with believers who will speak truth in love (Proverbs 27:5-6). – Isolation breeds false security; community sharpens vigilance. Living with Humble Vigilance • Expect Christ’s return at any moment – “You also must be ready, for the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:44). – Readiness fuels purity (1 John 3:3). • Avoid the “peace and safety” illusion – “While people are saying, ‘Peace and security,’ destruction will come on them suddenly” (1 Thessalonians 5:3). – True peace rests on reconciliation with God, not favorable circumstances. • Keep spiritual disciplines vibrant – Prayer, fasting, corporate worship, and service align our desires with God’s. – Neglect of disciplines dulls spiritual sensitivity. Promises for the Watchful • Protection: “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I will also keep you from the hour of testing” (Revelation 3:10). • Guidance: “Whoever listens to Me will dwell securely, and be at ease without fear of disaster” (Proverbs 1:33). • Reward: “Blessed is that servant whom his master finds doing so when he comes” (Luke 12:43). Staying clear of the attitude that scoffs at danger is not about anxious striving; it is about persistent, humble dependence on the Lord, anchored in His infallible Word and empowered by His Spirit each day. |
    |