The Danger of Being Too Comfortable

The slavery in Egypt taught us a remarkable trait of the Jewish people. The Torah says, “The more they afflicted us, the more we multiplied and burst forth.”

Difficulties and hardships somehow managed to bring out the best in us. We were motivated with the struggle for survival. It has been said that the Nobel Prizes won by Jews, often took place in less than ideal situations.

The negative side of being comfortable, is that it leads to complacency and a more lax attitude towards religious observance.

The Rabbis gave a strong warning when they said, “A man has a tendency to rebel against G-d when he is full.” They were speaking of when there are no financial worries and family members are pretty healthy, they forget the need to give constant gratitude to Hashem.

This was Moshe Rabbeinu’s warning to the people before he died. He foresaw a time when beautiful houses will be built, filled with plenty, and life will be peaceful. In such times, we must not forget that all of the abundance comes from Him.

When times are tough, Jews wake up and turn to Hashem in prayer. They are motivated to push forward and survive. We must find a way to stay motivated and thrive, in good times and in bad times.