A Great Lie

Scripture – Amos 3:6-10: ⁶When a trumpet sounds in a city, do not the people tremble? When disaster comes to a city, has not the LORD caused it? ⁷Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets. ⁸The lion has roared—who will not fear? The Sovereign LORD has spoken—who can but prophesy? ⁹Proclaim to the fortresses of Ashdod and to the fortresses of Egypt: “Assemble yourselves on the mountains of Samaria; see the great unrest within her and the oppression among her people.” ¹⁰“They do not know how to do right,” declares the LORD, “who hoard plunder and loot in their fortresses.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Amos’ message is directed clearly to those of God’s people who have great material wealth. “They do not know how to do right.” From the perspective of Christ, All I have belongs to God. I am called to manage God’s assets. Some of that is provided to meet my needs. The rest is to be used for His purposes. The problem comes when I begin hoarding what I have – using it for my purposes or not using it at all.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ve learned I cannot over-emphasize the power of money in my life. It will demand my attention. It will try to intimidate me. It will claim I cannot live without it. I will recognize that as the lie it is. I will focus my attention on Christ and His direction. I will hold on to what I have lightly – ready to let it go.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you are number one in my life. I know I don’t always act like that. Forgive me for those times I give in to the call of money in my life. Lift me above all that today. Show me how you would have me use your stuff. Thanks for trusting me.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.