This week, we read through the book of Amos. Amos, though only nine chapters long, packs a powerful prophetic punch. This Old Testament book delivers a sobering message to the people of Israel during a time of economic prosperity and spiritual complacency.
Amos is unique among the prophets—he wasn’t a priest or a professional prophet but a farmer called by God to speak hard truths. His message begins with judgments against Israel’s neighbors but quickly turns toward Israel itself. While the nation enjoyed wealth and comfort, it had grown corrupt.
Despite the heavy tone, Amos ends with a message of hope and restoration. God promises that after judgment, He will raise up and restore His people.
I will plant Israel in their own land, never again to be uprooted from the land I have given them. Amos 9:15
One of the most stirring verses is Amos 5:24.
But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! Amos 5:24
This verse reminds us that God cares deeply about how we treat others. The word “righteousness” here isn’t just about personal morality. It’s deeply relational—right living before God and others. When we walk in righteousness, we reflect the character of God in how we love, serve, and treat people.
In our own lives, the message of Amos challenges us to examine:
- Are we more concerned with appearances than obedience?
- Do we turn a blind eye to injustice in our communities?
- Are we using our resources to serve others or just ourselves?
Let’s be a people who reflect God’s heart — living lives of sincere worship and active compassion.