Read: Amos 3:1-10
Hear this word that the LORD has spoken against you, O people of Israel. (v. 1)
American Express coined the slogan, “Membership has its privileges.” This implies that members enjoy certain benefits non-members cannot enjoy. Belonging to this group has advantages.
In a way, this is how the Israelites viewed their relationship with God. They were chosen to be in covenant with God and therefore they enjoyed his favor and blessings that others did not receive. Unfortunately, this status they held with God bred arrogance and led them to abandon the very God who saved them. Their worship was superficial, and their actions denied their faith. Perhaps in an effort to get their attention, God sent Amos, a shepherd from Judah with no divine lineage, to share a prophetic vision with the Israelites in the northern kingdom. Amos began by sharing with them how God was going to judge all of their sinful, surrounding neighbors. You can almost hear them cheer their agreement! However, the tables then turn as Amos shares that this judgment isn’t just for their neighbors, but that they would be judged as well.
Jesus died for us and we are God’s children. Because of this we do enjoy God’s favor and blessing. But this privileged status does not mean we can abandon God. God has called us to be holy, set apart for him, so he can be glorified through us. —Kelly Slaybaugh
As you pray, ask God to help you live according to his ways so he may be glorified through your life.
About the Author
Kelly Slaybaugh lives in Wake Forest, North Carolina, is a student at Asbury Theological Seminary, and an “empty nester.” She loves connecting with God through nature and outdoor activities.
