It is true of the world in which we live that people are seeking happiness, solace, and confidence in the wrong things. People confide more in the blessings they receive rather than the One who gives them. It is also true that “righteousness exalts a nation” (Prov. 14:34a) and that “sin is a reproach to any people” (Prov. 14:34b). That is, if my mind is fixed on heavenly precepts and I am faithfully following them, I will be lifted up. However, if I seek the wrong things, I put myself and those around me in a dangerous situation. God, in Amos 5, is trying to make Israel realize that their rebellion against Him will never prevail. Through worldly eyes, they thought it would, but not when seen through eternal eyes. Much like Israel, we are facing a dilemma where rebellion against God seems to be a popular mindset adapted by the human race. Let us examine Amos 5 and see that if we want a successful nation, we must… Seek the right place (Amos 5:5-8a). Amos begins to point out the places to which Israel would try to turn, but God shut them down. They couldn't go to Bethel, Gilgal, or Beersheba. There was no where that Israel could go to find sufficient help. Amos then says that the places they were seeking would eventually be destroyed also (Amos 5:6-7). Likewise, when we place our trust in carnal, world things, we are destined for destruction. What is the Divine solution? Look for the place that is far beyond this world, and far bigger than this world. (Amos 5:8). Seek the right person (Amos 5:8b). Amos was dealing with a people who have a god of the stars, and a god of the skies, and a god of the moon. People were convinced that these gods had made and rule over a certain aspect of nature, emotion, or way of life. News flash, My God is the God of the sun, the moon, the stars, and everything else man knows and does not know. Amos gave Israel a direct command as to who should be served; “The Lord is His name” (Amos 5:8b). Seek the right plan (Amos 5:14-15). The command given was very simple but very profound. The Lord, through Amos, commands them to “seek good” (Amos 5:14a). “Good” includes many principles, but implies that all areas need to be covered as best as possible. The second command was “hate evil” (Amos 5:8a). This implies we need to be opposed, as strongly as possible, to every single thing that is contrary to the will of God. In doing so, seeking good is made all the more possible. If we do both of these constantly, and whole-heartedly, the Lord will be with us and defend us. It is certainly true that the things after which we follow, define the destination at which we arrive. When we are on the wrong road, we will not end up at the right destination. Heaven is the attainable goal of an intentional journey and Hell is the deserved end of a wasted opportunity.
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