In reading the book of Amos, I realize the depths of disregard Israel had for God. It didn’t matter how God warned them for their callous insensitivity; the nation of Israel wanted no part of God. They were too enthralled with their personal life and enjoyed living it as it was. Amos, had the job of telling them of their mediocrity and that judgement from God was at hand. They didn’t care!
They were told by Amos they would have to meet face to face with God and to be ready for it. We’ve seen the scripture Amos used on walls, cars, even on billboards…”Prepare to meet your God.” Amos 4:12
Amos forewarned them. He even shocked his listeners on one occasion by singing a funeral song for them as if they had already been destroyed. They relied on their wealth, and religious rituals and believed they were secure. And, yet Amos proceeded to tell them of their forthcoming destruction.
As much as he told them, I can understand somewhat God’s desperation to give them opportunity to repent and come back to Him. Amos told them, “come back to the Lord, and live! Otherwise he will roar through Israel like a fire, devouring you completely.” Amos 5:6
How different was their condition to that of our world today? It’s basically the same. We have come to a place where “anything goes” and it is everyone for himself. Careful now! Evil is out to destroy our world and you and I. There is no question. But, regardless of all of that, we have hope! It is found in seeking God and His purpose for our life.
Of course, we have difficulties but it isn’t an excuse to give it up. It’s a time that divulges the real you and the real me. Do we react? Or do we act upon our faith and trust in God? We can’t control others but we certainly can control ourselves with the help of the Lord.
Seek God! I tell myself this daily. Do I feel like seeking God in times of difficulty? There are times I don’t. But, I encourage myself to do it as hard as it may be and I trust and I wait, and I believe and I hope and God always comes through! It’s a process that provides everlasting effects in the long term.
So, whether you feel like it or not, seek God in your discomfort and in your struggle and when you see someone else struggling encourage them to seek God. Encourage one another. “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
Seek God, he waits for us to do that more than we will ever realize! Blessed be the Name of the Lord!
ritasalomon 