Honoring God In My Living

Scripture – Amos 5:21-24: ²¹“I hate, I despise your religious feasts; I cannot stand your assemblies. ²²Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them. Though you bring choice fellowship offerings, I will have no regard for them. ²³Away with the noise of your songs! I will not listen to the music of your harps. ²⁴But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) I wish Amos would say what he really thinks! God comes right to the point here – the problem is most clearly visible in worship. The religious/spiritual life of the people has been disconnected from their daily behavior and attitudes. So Amos brings these pointed, strong words from the Lord: “I hate, I despise….I cannot stand.” God will no longer pay any attention to these artificial worship rituals. Instead, His call still rings out today: “Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!”

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Self examination is so important when I come to worship God. It’s a time for me to look at my heart, my motives and my priorities in life. I consider my behavior, not just my words. In worship I bring myself as honestly as I can into the presence of God. I will be careful about doing that. I will be honest about who I am in worship. I will keep open to Christ’s transforming power.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for your mercy and grace. Help me worship you through my behavior today in all the situations I encounter. Please keep leading me in the way of righteousness. In my life, Lord, and in your church be glorified today.