For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.
The Hebrew word for “waywardness” is “Meshuva”. It means “away.” As in “going away.” What many would call “backsliding.” So in essence, the backsliding of the simple will kill them. Implying these are believers who have let their relationship slide with YHWH.
The next part of the verse says “the complacency of fools will destroy them.” The Hebrew word for “complacency” carries the meaning of “tranquility” meaning “all is good.” “No concern of harm.” But what is the tranquility of Fools? It’s quite possibly saying “all is good” when it really isn’t.
We see backsliding and thinking all is good when it isn’t can be the downfall of these individuals. Don’t rely on knowledge and works while falling away to complacency in your relationship. Keep your relationship with the Father the utmost priority in your life. Otherwise, you might believe all is well, when it might be the exact opposite.
Let this be a focus in your time of meditation throughout the day. Until next time, Shalom.
SOURCE: Steve Moutria at TorahFamily.org (Posted with permission)