Getting to Know the Prophets预览

Amos

The book of Amos should serve as a warning to any flourishing nation that has forgotten God.

At times, the prophecies of Amos seem confusing. After all, a few decades before this, Jonah prophesied the overwhelming prosperity and military success of Northern Israel. So, let’s be clear: Israel did flourish under the reign of King Jeroboam II. However, military success and wealth under his leadership led to apathy and spiritual decline. Jeroboam II began to allow idol worship and exploitation of the poor. In fact, Jeroboam II was bad news! He is considered one of the worst kings ever in the eyes of the prophet. Amos’s prophetic ministry takes place at the end of Jeroboam’s reign, and he cautioned the listeners by reminding them how easy it is to fall deep into sin.

Amos's prophecies described the destruction of Israel due to their sins, which ultimately found fulfillment when Assyria overtook and destroyed Israel.

1. Can you think of a season when you were flourishing outwardly (wealth, career, education, socially) but spiritually complacent (or struggling inwardly)?
2. Which sins came as a result of being spiritually complacent? What guard rails have you placed in your life to prevent this from happening again?

Prayer:God, thank You for the warning You gave to Amos against spiritual complacency. Please illuminate areas in my own life where I have fallen into complacency and guide me to surrender those areas into dependence upon You.