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Amos-7

The Shepherd of Buddh's Creek: A Devotional Study on Amos 7​

Introduction​

Amos 7 contains a fascinating encounter between God and His prophet. The prophet, Amos, receives two dream-visions, both of which depict God as the Shepherd of Buddh's Creek. Let's explore these visions, unpacking the profound spiritual insights they offer.

Section 1: The First Dream (Amos 7:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: As Amos watched, he saw a lush, green pasture with grazing sheep. Suddenly, a man appeared with a club in his hand, and the sheep scattered in all directions. It's a stark contrast, and Amos concludes that the vision is an indictment against the shepherds of Israel, who have not carried out their duties faithfully. God reminded Amos that vengeance is His alone (v. 6). Reflect on this powerful reminder of the sovereignty and justice of the God who shepherds His people.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you trust God's sovereignty and justice as the Shepherd of your life?
  • Are there areas where you need to surrender control, recognizing that the Shepherd of your life has a plan?

Section 2: The Second Dream (Amos 7:7-9)​

Devotional Thought: A second dream-vision follows, a description of a basket of ripe fruit. Fire raged from the north, consuming the fruits and producing only two left-over figs, one ripe, and one dried. God's interpretation is clear: Israel will survive the impending disaster, but only a small remnant will be left. Again, Amos sees God's sovereignty at work. Let's appreciate God's sovereignty amidst trials as the Shepherd of our lives.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you understand God's sovereignty at work in challenging circumstances?
  • Are there areas where you need to trust the Shepherd's plan amidst the trial?

Section 3: God's Glory in Israel (Amos 7:10-17)​

Devotional Thought: Amos delivers God's message to the King, who asks, "Amos, see what is before the house of Judah as the afternoon declines! Will you not be a seer to us, but rather fall into the house?" (v. 12). Amos responds with God's message, "The lion has roared; who will not fear? The Lord God has spoken; who can but prophesy?" (v. 8). Amos recognizes that God's glory is not for sale, nor is it to be bought for a price. Let's recognize and respect the divine sovereignty of God in Israel.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what areas of your life do you need to respect God's divine sovereignty in Israel?
  • How do you respond to those who seek God's glory for personal gain?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional journey through Amos 7, let's stand in awe of the God who shepherds His people. This passage teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and justice amidst trials, and to respect His divine sovereignty as the Shepherd of Israel. May we carry these insights into our daily lives, living faithfully in God's will.