Moving the Grain

Scripture – Amos 2:13-16: “Now then, I will crush you as a cart crushes when loaded with grain. The swift will not escape, the strong will not muster their strength, and the warrior will not save his life. The archer will not stand his ground, the fleet-footed soldier will not get away, and the horseman will not save his life. Even the bravest warriors will flee naked on that day,” declares the LORD.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) God’s judgment is coming upon Israel. Even our best abilities cannot stand before God. The swift, the strong, the warrior, the archer, the horseman – all will fall short. Amos uses an interesting image to illustrate this. He gives a snapshot of a cart being loaded with so much grain it eventually is crushed by the weight. It’s like people will be crushed by their own affluence. If I try to keep hanging on to what I have, it will eventually destroy me. These are words directed toward God’s people. What word is there for the church today?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’m often reminded that any financial crunch I feel in life is directly related to the affluent lifestyle I live. If we did not have college or cars or medical care as expenses, we wouldn’t need as much money. At the same time, such is life in this North American culture. And I’m glad we live where we do. I will thank God for all He’s given us in life. I will not let any financial concern distract me from following Christ. I will continue to give from what God provides.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, thank you for providing and entrusting me with so much. As you continue to fill my cart with grain, help me pass it on to others so it doesn’t get over-loaded. Show me your way this day, O Lord.