In this chapter, the Lord reveals that He must punish Israel because He chose them alone out of all the families on the earth, and they sinned against Him. Here’s the chapter in its entirety: “Listen to this message that the Lord has spoken against you, O people of Israel and Judah – the entire family I rescued from Egypt: “From among all the families on the earth, I chose you alone. That is why I must punish you for all your sins.”
Witnesses against Guilty Israel
Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction? Does a lion ever roar in a thicket without first finding a victim? Does a young lion growl in its den without first catching its prey? Does a bird ever get caught in a trap that has no bait? Does a trap ever spring shut when there’s nothing there to catch? When the war trumpet blares, shouldn’t the people be alarmed? When disaster comes to a city, isn’t it because the Lord planned it? (Wow! Let us not be fooled…God is in control!)
“But always, first of all, I warn you through my servants the prophets. I, the Sovereign Lord, have now done this.”
The lion has roared – tremble in fear! The Sovereign Lord has spoken – I dare not refuse to proclaim his message!
Announce this to the leaders of Philistia and Egypt: “Take your seats now on the hills around Samaria, and witness the scandalous spectacle of all Israel’s crimes.”
“My people have forgotten what it means to do right,” says the Lord. “Their fortresses are filled with wealth taken by theft and violence. Therefore,” says the Sovereign Lord, “an enemy is coming! He will surround them and shatter their defenses. Then he will plunder all their fortresses.”
This is what the Lord says: “A shepherd who tries to rescue a sheep from a lion’s mouth will recover only two legs and a piece of ear. So it will be when the Israelites in Samria are rescued with only a broken chair and a tattered pillow. Now listen to this, and announce it throughout all Israel, “ says the Lord, the Lord God Almighty. “On the very day I punish Israel for its sins, I will destroy the pagan altars at Bethel. The horns of the altar will be cut off and fall to the ground. And I will destroy the beautiful homes of the wealthy – their winter mansions and their summer houses, too – all their palaces filled with ivory. I, the Lord, have spoken!” (Amos 3)
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Help us heed your multiple warnings, and turn from our wicked ways. For you are a forgiving God and eager to bless us. Lord, we love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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