2010-09-13 - Consequences

Amos 7:10-17

But the Lord took me from tending the flock, and said to me, 'Go, prophesy to my people Israel.' (Amos 7:15)

Amaziah exaggerated the truth a bit. He went and told King Jeroboam that Amos was starting a conspiracy against the king. The truth was, Amaziah did not want Amos prophesying in Bethel. He had a little bit of a heart, for he didn't mind if he prophesied, as long as it wasn't in Bethel. Amaziah, an official to the king, viewed Amos' words as a revolt and not a nudging from the Lord.

Instead of facing God's judgment, Amaziah wanted to get rid of Amos. Getting rid of Amos wouldn't change Israel's fate; it would only soothe its conscience for a time. What was God expected to do? King Jeroboam had made the area a place of pagan worship. The Lord could not overlook their actions and unrepentant hearts. If only they would return to God, Who is waiting with open arms.

Amos proceeded to tell Amaziah what God had shown him about Amaziah's personal life, and it wasn't a pretty picture. Amaziah's family would be destroyed, his land divided up, and he would die in a foreign country. Amaziah paid a high price for his unfaithfulness and stubbornness.

Lord, Use me for Your glory. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

If it were possible, what would it be like to trade places with Amos for a day?

What would Amos face, being in your shoes?

Lisa

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