HOW TO OVERCOME THE SPIRIT OF COMPLACENCY?

We have learned about Samson, who had been anointed with the Spirit of God, yet ended his life in such a miserable way because he became complacent. He simply stopped taking care of his spiritual life, and that cost him his salvation.

The same thing happens to many people over time.

But how can we overcome this spirit of complacency so that we can protect our salvation until the end?

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing…” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17

Constant prayer is essential to protect ourselves from the attacks of the devil. Constant prayer means that the first words you speak at the start of your day should be spoken to God—giving thanks for another day, committing your plans to Him, presenting everything you intend to do, asking for your daily bread, and praying that your life may sanctify His name and that His will be done in your life.

We face many challenges throughout the day, and by maintaining a spirit of prayer, Satan will not be able to bring us down. The moment we stop praying consistently, our lives can become stagnant, because prayer keeps our spirit alert and dependent on God.

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Gratitude is the antidote to complaining. It is easy to give thanks when we receive good news, but when we receive bad news, it becomes much more difficult. Instead, it becomes easy to complain and even blame God.

The devil wants us to complain because when we do, we reveal spiritual weakness. Do not complain about your problems; rather, give thanks, for they can turn into testimonies, and through difficulties we become stronger.

“Do not quench the Spirit.” 1 Thessalonians 5:19

When we stop listening to the voice of God and ignore His Word, advice, and teachings, we are quenching the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will not abide in someone who refuses to listen. If you want to keep the Holy Spirit, do not ignore His voice.

“Do not despise prophecies.” 1 Thessalonians 5:20

The prophecies are written in the Bible, and everything we need is found there. Many people end up ruining their lives because they choose to believe the prophets of this world while despising the Word of God. The Word of God is useful for instruction, rebuke, and guidance.

The reason why the devil does not want us to meditate on the Word of God is because he knows that it sets us free. Do not despise the prophecies, for it is written: “Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” (Revelation 22:7)

Repent, be baptized in water and in the Holy Spirit, and become a child of God. Then, when you leave this world, you will be with the Lord Jesus forever.

“Test all things; hold fast what is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21

Don’t just believe everything people tell you. Test all things so that you will not be deceived.

“Abstain from every form of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:22

We must not only reject evil, but also abstain from it—even from its appearance. Be careful with the things that negatively influence you and pull you away from God, especially friends, colleagues, or partners who pressure you to sin against Him.

If we do these things, we will reap a good result:

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23

When we live according to the way God has instructed us to, our spirit, body, and soul will be preserved until the coming of Jesus Christ. But if we do not follow His instructions, we run the risk of losing our salvation.