Amos 3, Colossians 4

Amos 3

Verse 2 is a significant verse in this chapter. God says, “You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.”

The basis of God's accusation and judgment against the people of Israel is their special relationship. From the beginning of His dealings with them, God has stressed their higher responsibility because of their knowledge of Him.

The word “known” is the same Hebrew word used in Genesis 4:1 when it described how Adam “knew” his wife. He had a very intimate and caring relationship with her. God above all the nations had been intimate only with Israel. How the nation responded to this leading, loving, and living in following God led to their punishment.

I obviously feel this huge responsibility as a child of God, to honor the privilege of intimacy with God. But even more is this sense in this season of life. God has so intimately been involved in every move, step, and leading me in my life over the years to put me in this place. It’s humbling, but also an amazing responsibility.

God, thank you for your intimacy through Christ. Thank you that we were invited into this covenant relationship that we might not only have eternal life, but also be a part of your Kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven.

Colossians 4

May we never forget Paul’s exhortation to the Church: Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.