Amos 3

Today’s scripture brings me to my knees even as I type.  What started as a prayer-filled morning can turn to disappointment and letdown as my human self attempts to handle my sinful actions.  (I’m writing a book on Parenting Shortcomings…) Have you heard the phrase, “You may be the only Bible some people may read?”  How others see me could be how they see Christianity if I have been intentional in sharing my faith.

Amos 3 is full of metaphors that remind, cause me to reflect, and lead me to repentance of sin that ultimately separates me from our Lord.  This was his warning to the Israelites and a reminder for us today and all days.  With a family and being surrounded by people daily in my earthly job, my example of how to live out my Christian life is on watch daily.

“You only have I chosen
of all the families of the earth;
therefore I will punish you
for all your sins.”

Do two walk together
unless they have agreed to do so?
Does a lion roar in the thicket
when it has no prey?
Does it growl in its den
when it has caught nothing?
Does a bird swoop down to a trap on the ground
when no bait is there?
Does a trap spring up from the ground
if it has not caught anything?
When a trumpet sounds in a city,
do not the people tremble?
When disaster comes to a city,
has not the Lord caused it?

Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing
without revealing his plan
to his servants the prophets.

What we say and do matters.  I can sometimes find myself allowing myself to fit into a situation and lose sight of what God has called me to do.  Where does my faith fall when achieving earthly desires?

2 Timothy 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,

Today take a moment to remember God’s closeness. His desire to walk every step with us. Reflect on what is causing distractions from our Heavenly Father. I can think of a few of my own.  Thankfully, our God shows mercy even in his anger at our human desires.

Luke 9:23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

Lord, I just came today with an open heart asking for forgiveness.  Every word that is written is for us from You. Help me to draw closer to you and deny myself and my earthly desires to not seek you first.  Amen

Stay Blessed

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