Don't Fall Into Complacency

Melito Barrera • August 12, 2025

Zephaniah 1:12 says, “And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The LORD will not do good, neither will he do evil.”

The prophecy of Zephaniah shall be fulfilled at the second coming of our Lord Jesus, when He will “come as a thief” (Rev 16:15), or at an unexpected time wherein “that day and that hour knoweth no man” (Mk 13:32). The “noise of a cry” (v. 10), shall be heard from “all the merchant people” (v. 11). Because all their goods and merchandise shall be cut down and cut off! The Lord shall destroy all the worldwide trading when He returns (Rev 18:18).


Today’s consumer economy is driven by consumers spending on various merchandise being traded within the global market. One day, the people who take pride in their goods and services shall be humiliated (Isa 2:17), because they ignored God (Eze 27:12), and have no fear of Him (Jer 48:11). These “men that are settled on their lees” or are at ease and complacent, shall be punished! Sadly, many people today are just so busy earning money (Prov 21:5). Their lives are focused on worldly things and materialism (Lk 12:15), that they become complacent when it comes to honoring the Lord (Amos 6:1).


This is a very important warning to all of us; especially for those who are self-assured and comfortable in their current status, like many rich and influential people. Total reliance on wealth as our own sense of security can lead to a spiritual downfall! Because “the prosperity of fools shall destroy them” (Prov 1:32)! Although America has a very strong economy today, we must realize that more than 70% of our gross domestic products are passed on to consumers. We can surely face the same kind of destruction and desolation one day. Those who “have lived in pleasure on the earth” (Jms 5:5), will one day suffer the consequences and face destruction. May we remain vigilant (1 Thes 5:6), to avoid falling into complacency! God bless you!


- Pastor Melito Barrera

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