God's Word For Today

Daily Devotional

Harsh Words

Read Amos 1:1 through 2:16; 2 John 1–13

It’s easy to look at the judgments God leveled against the enemies of His people and think, They sure got what was coming to them. After all, these people profaned the name of God and killed and enslaved His chosen people. Surely they deserve harsh judgment.

It’s more difficult to look at the judgments God pronounces against His own people and not be saddened or confused. Why would God subject His own precious Israelites to such dire punishment?

“I also raised up prophets from among your children and Nazirites from among your youths. Is this not true, people of Israel?” declares the Lord. “But you made the Nazirites drink wine and commanded the prophets not to prophesy” (Amos 2:11–12).

God’s people had taken those who were set aside as holy prophets and leaders and had turned them away from God, forcing them to forsake their sacred vows. This was even more displeasing to God than the sins of other nations. God wants to bless His people, but when they fail to keep their covenant with Him, He must correct them to bring them back to the right path.

Challenge for Today: Remain close to God and stay on His path.

Quicklook: Amos 2:6–16