Not Practicing the Faith?
“Woe to those who are at ease in Zion…Woe to those who lie on beds of ivory and stretch themselves out on their couches, and eat lambs from the flock and calves from the midst of the stall, who sing idle songs to the sound of the harp and like David invent for themselves instruments of music, who drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the finest oils, but are not grieved over the ruin of Joseph!”
(Amos 6:1,4-6)
We often assume that the faithful are the Lord’s people, while the faithless are not God’s people. However, throughout the pages of sacred history, we are reminded that even the Lord’s people are at times found not practicing the faith. The story of Amos 6 is such a sad chronicle in the history of the Lord’s people. Notice the characteristics that led to their downfall:
1. 6:1 They felt secure.
2. 6:1b They belonged to a first class nation.
3. 6:3 Personal disaster was a distant notion.
4. 6:4 They were very relaxed.
5. 6:4b They were eating well.
6. 6:5 They were creative and entertainment based.
7. 6:6 Their beverage of choice was abundant.
8. 6:8b Their economy allowed for the best.
Who would have thought that from this luxurious pinnacle they would have fallen (6:7-8)? Yet, they did fall. Think about your own faith. Are you practicing, or, are you at ease in Zion?
-Robert M. Housby