7/21/2012
Amos 4
-The “cows of Bashan” refer to luxurious-wealthy women in
Samaria who were pampered, sleek, and well-feed to the detriment of the poor
and needy (Psalm 22:12). God’s judgment was pronounced on them for their misconduct
and exorbitant living. *Application* God says true and undefiled religion is to
visit and care for the orphans, the widows, the poor, and stay unstained from the
world (Leviticus 19:10, Deuteronomy 15:4, 7, Proverbs 14:21 James 1:27). Remember
the less fortunate around you. God cares for them as much as He does you. When
you have opportunity, do not neglect to give out of your abundance.
-Amos uses sarcasm in verses four and five as he invites
them to enter Bethel (the place God had renewed His covenant with Abraham to
Jacob, Genesis 28:10-22) and Gilgal (Israel’s first camp ground in the Promised
Land under Joshua where he had renewed to covenant and the rite of circumcision,
they celebrated Passover once again and the manna ceased here at this place,
Joshua 4:19-5:12) to transgress and multiply transgression. Amos mockingly
taunts them to bring in righteous acts to these places knowing that in reality
they were worshipping idols instead of the One-True Living God in these sacred
places. Jeroboam had placed an idol in Bethel to discourage the people from
traveling to Jerusalem in the southern kingdom to worship (1 Kings 12:26-29). He
is angry because of their unfaithfulness in going astray from keeping covenant
(Amos 3:3). *Application* the LORD sees and knows all of our mischief and
eventually calls us into account. Remain true, loyal, and steadfast to His
promise by faith.
-There are five things the LORD sent in an effort to have
His people return to Him in verses six through eleven, yet they were hard
hearted and would not do it. He sent famine, lack of rain, scorching wind and
mildew, plagues, and overthrew them, but they remained stubborn and did not
repent before the LORD. *Application* Again we see the warning and disciplining
nature of God in these passages for the purpose of correction and Godly living.
He had no pleasure in this, but it was futile in bringing back His people into
right relationship with Him (Ezekiel 33:11). *Application* I see America in
very much the same ordeal as Israel during this time. We have been warned and disciplined
over and over, yet we do not get it. We are going headlong against the ways of
the Almighty God with our laws and personal practices. We are luxuriant and
care only for ourselves more and more. I fear for our future if we don’t turn
back to God as a nation. His patience is limited, and He cannot bless sin
forever.
-God’s proclamation in verse twelve is powerful, “Prepare to
meet your God, O Israel.” This should be awe inspiring and draw them back to Him.
However, they will reject the opportunity and sink further into depravity.
-God’s creative abilities and power are on display in the
final verse of the chapter; again to impress the people as to whom they are
dealing with in regards to the LORD. He can read man’s thoughts and is
sovereign over the entire earth. He knows the heart and will not be overtaken
by anyone or anything. *Application* Meditate on the qualities of God given in
this verse. Take some time today to reflect on His power and worship His
majesty. Observe creation and give Him glory. Watch the sunset and know that
the LORD Himself has done it. He is in control and He has revealed Himself to
us knowing our every thought and plea. Worship Him alone!
Verse to Memorize:
Amos 4:13
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