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TODAY'S READING:
WORD OF THE DAY:
- Sovereign
Today, we dive into the book of Amos, a prophet called by God to deliver a message to the Northern Kingdom around 760-753 BC. Although Amos was from a village near Bethlehem in Judah, his prophetic ministry targeted the Northern Kingdom. Amos, whose name means “burden bearer,” was a shepherd and fig farmer before he became a prophet. His message to a materially prosperous Israel was one of judgment for their injustice towards the poor and their betrayal of God's covenant.
Amos 1-3
In the opening chapters, Amos pronounces judgments on neighboring nations—Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, and Moab—condemning them for various transgressions like cruelty and betrayal. He then turns his attention to Judah and Israel, highlighting their rejection of God's law and their numerous offenses, including oppression of the poor and idolatry. God’s chosen people, Israel, are mainly targeted, with Amos emphasizing their unique relationship with God and the impending punishment for their sins.
Amos 4-6
Israel is warned that their continued sin will lead to severe consequences. God recounts the plagues and disasters He has already sent as warnings, urging them to return to Him. Despite these warnings, Israel’s arrogance persists. Amos delivers a stark message: “Prepare to meet your God in judgment.” Yet, there is a call to repentance: “Come back to me and live! Don’t worship at the pagan altars; come back to the Lord and live.” God despises Israel's arrogance and their false sense of security, warning of the sorrow that awaits them.
The book of Amos highlights the limits of human actions and the limitless nature of God's love and mercy. Despite the continual sin and partial obedience of Israel, God's compassion endures, rooted in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His promises tempered His anger, showing that while human actions may be flawed and limited, God's faithfulness remains steadfast.
The people of Israel were repeatedly warned, yet they ignored the prophets’ blunt messages. God’s sovereignty means He cannot let sin go on unpunished, but it also means He continually reaches out to His people, desiring their return to righteousness. God’s call to Amos, a humble shepherd and fig farmer, underscores that He uses ordinary people to accomplish His purposes.
As we reflect on these passages, let’s cultivate a deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions. Recognize our human limitations and lean into God's limitless grace and mercy. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
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