Skip to main content

Amos-6

Comfort in Sorrow: A Devotional Study on Amos 6​

Introduction​

The book of Amos is a prophetic message sent to the people of the Northern Kingdom, Israel. It's an inferno of judgment and woe but also a call to repentance and hope. In Amos 6, we find a message of comfort amidst suffering, teaching us how to find grace during difficult times.

Section 1: The Personification of Suffering (Amos 6:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: The prophet personifies suffering as a sculptor and death as a carver. These imagery helps us understand that life is fleeting and often fleetingly takes things from us, including all that we have accumulated. Today, face the reality that life is often taken away—through loss, disease, or disasters—from those around us. Remember, however, that in these situations, the Lord is closer than we know, and He's carrying each one of us as we face such pain.

Reflection Questions:

  • What have you lost, taken away, or sapped from you or your loved ones?
  • Is there help, consolation, or support still needed in the situation?
  • How can you remember that the Lord is holding your hand as He carves your path?

Section 2: The Fleeting Wealth (Amos 6:3-7)​

Devotional Thought: The people of Israel were glorifying themselves in the midst of poverty and suffering, flaunting their luxuries as if immortality and wealth would protect them forever. We, too, often find false comfort in materialism. Later, we understand there's no lasting treasure on earth. The ups and downs of life teach us that our possessions aren't safe in the face of the storms of life, and a true inheritance lies in eternal life through our faith in Jesus Christ. Regardless of our earthly circumstances, let us trust in God's unchanging faithfulness and find our comfort in Him alone.

Reflection Questions:

  • What are some instances or material possessions that make you believe you're in control and safe forever?
  • What might we do to refrain from taking pride in our possessions and fighting God's will?
  • How can you find comfort in Jesus Christ, the only one who can offer us eternal life?

Section 3: Responsibility to the Needy and Outcasts (Amos 6:8-14)​

Devotional Thought: The message of Amos directly addresses the sinful lifestyle of the elite in Israel. They were enjoying the good things while leaving out the poor and marginalized. Once again, we are reminded of Jesus' teachings to care for the least of the city, and the importance of sharing makes us more humane as believers by helping those who are currently suffering and in need. Let us be reminded that our true treasure is the compassion and care we share in the Lord's name.

Reflection Questions:

  • Where can we find poverties and marginalization in our city or society?
  • What might we do to extend compassion and aid in the Lord's name?
  • How can we model our behavior towards the indigent, and repent if we have already ignored this call?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional journey through Amos 6, let us remember Amos delivers a vital message, husbanding us to ground our faith and hope in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, ultimately walking towards faithfulness, humility, and compassion. Upon hearing the words, the Lord said, "Let Justice roll on like a river, Righteousness like a never-ending stream!" (Amos 5:24) Let's allow our own stream of faith, humility, and compassion never cease to flow. May we trust in the Lord's timing and plan for the distribution of wealth from His largest gift - GRACE - and continue to obey and abide by His will.