Zechariah 2 - Promise and Proclamation.

 

Zechariah 2 – Promise and Proclamation.

 

The act of measuring was an indication that God owned the city and had plans for it. No matter how discouraged the people of the Jewish remnant were, they could be sure that their work was not in vain. There was a glorious future for Jerusalem.

 

Many Jews still in Babylon should have returned to their land. Babylon was destined to fall, but Jerusalem would have a new beginning. Why stay in a condemned city? But some believers today still choose to stay in the world (2 Cor. 6:14-18; Rev. 18:1-8).

 

The Lord speaks and promises to care for His people. The pupil of the eye is vulnerable and feels pain keenly. God cares for us because we are dear to Him (Deut. 32:10).

 

Their sighing would be turned into singing, for the Lord was coming to them and would dwell with them. He will claim His inheritance (Ex. 19:5), and they will know Him and serve Him. The covenant with Abraham (Gen. 12:1-3) will be fulfilled as the gentile nations come to the Lord because of the glory of God in Israel.

 

God’s promise to “shake my hand against them” is a gesture of militant opposition. God would reverse the fortunes of the Gentile oppressors so that master would become slave and slave, master. This about-face would cause the people to acknowledge God’s sovereignty.

 

Ultimately, a right standing before God comes only through Christ fulfilling the law on every sinner’s behalf. (Rom. 5:19; 2 Cor. 5:21).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

 

 

Zechariah 1 - Three Targets

 

Zechariah 1 – Three Targets

 

God’s anger was directed against three targets:

 

The previous generation. Their sins had helped to bring about the ruin of the nation, but the new generation was committing the same sins. Sin has a way of following us and finally overtaking us, like a wild beast let loose on our trail. It is always time to repent.

 

The present generation. During the seventy years of captivity, the nation felt God’s anger; but now the time had come for God to show mercy. His discipline had accomplished His purposes; now He would begin to heal and restore His people.

 

The complacent nations. God’s angels patrol His earth and work on behalf of His people (Heb. 1:14). The nations were at peace, but Israel was still in difficulty. When God used the other nations to punish Israel, they were excessively cruel; now God would repay them. Horns are a symbol of power, and God would break the power of the ntaions.

 

The feeble remnant, working on the temple, must have been greatly encouraged by God’s promise of mercy and help. Are you claiming His promises today?

 

Judah is the tribal name; Israel is the honorable name of the nation chosen by God; jerusalem is the seat of God’s dwelling, the location of His temple. Horns represent strength or sometimes royalty. The craftsman symbolizes God’s instruments of judgment against these nations. Perhaps they are viewed as workmen who forge weapons of destruction (Isa. 54:16, 17).

 

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

 

The Book of Haggai

 

The Book of Haggai

 

During the seventy years in Babylonian captivity, the Jewish people dreamed of being back in Jerusalem and worshiping in a restored temple. In 539 B.C., after the Persians conquered Babylon, King Cyrus abruptly decreed that the Jews could return to their homeland. Surprisingly, only a small number accepted this offer, and most of them quickly became preoccupied with building their own homes. They had lost their spiritual motivation, but this time from self-centeredness. God raised up the prophet Haggai to motivate His distracted people. Haggai forcefully informed his Jewish brethren that they were not making God their priority. Their neglect of the temple was really a neglect of the Lord. Haggai is one of only three Old Testament prophets who ministered after the Exile. The other two were Zechariah and Malachi. Together with the Judean governor Zerubbabal and the priest Ezra, Haggai attempted to jump start the Jewish people. Haggai reminds us that good intentions are not good if our day-to-day priorities are wrong. “I’ll get around to it” we tell ourselves. But sooner becomes later, and the job never gets done. If your soul is dragging, let Haggai motivate you to God-honoring action.

 

People spend money on what they consider most important. Haggai pointed out that the people in Jerusalem were valuining comforts of their own homes over God. Their homes had paneled roofs and decorated walls, while the temple – God’s house remained in ruins. They had spent their resources on what they valued. Haggai’s message was “Consider your ways!” It’s a message to us as well. We need to reevaluate where we spend our resources. Do our activities and spending habits reflect our dedication to God?

 

 

 

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Book of Zephaniah

 

Habakkuk 3 - A Plea for Mercy

 

Habakkuk 3 – A Plea for Mercy.

 

The prophet’s earlier questions and complaints against God culminate in a prayer. Habakkuk begins with a plea for mercy on Judah, quickly turns to faith-bolstering praise and then concludes with a pledge to wait expectantly for the Lord’s deliverance.

 

As Habakkuk gratefully recalls God’s faithful actions in Israel’s history, especially during the time of the Exodus, he presents a vision of God’s coming judgment on Judah.

 

Habakkuk envisioned the devastation and despair of the Judeans when the Babylonians invaded their land – barren fig trees, desolate vineyard, malnourished cattle, and sheep. This pictured ruin for the nation. No wonder Habakkuk trembled in fear. But he didn’t let fear immobilize him. He quieted his heart and cried to God for deliverance, knowing that whatever would happen, he would always be able to rejoice in the Lord. No matter what happens, God is with us, and in that too we can rejoice. Trust is believing without seeing. When we trust in our trustworthy God, we don’t need to know why. We only need to know Him.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

Habakkuk 1 & 2 - Nagging Questions and Doubts

Habakkuk 1 – Nagging Questions and Doubts.

 

Nagging and questions and doubts, everyone has them, even believers. We often feel guilty for doubting, so we repress our doubts. The prophet Habakkuk didn’t silence his questions and doubts. Instead, he courageously brought them to God. Habakkuk began by asking God why He allowed evil to flourish, a question that has puzzled people for centuries. Habakkuk humbly asked God, and God answered. When we have questions and doubts, we should bring them to God, and He will answer. We must be willing to accept the answer He gives. The one question children ask as soon as they understand the word “no” is why? They want to know the explanation for why they cannot do or have something. As we get older, the question continues to nag us as we encounter “why” questions at every turn. When we see evil, pain, and suffering in the world and, especially, in our lives we ask why?

Habakkuk preached trust during a time of great trouble and distress. The nation Judah was facing impending invasion from the Babylonians, who had taken Nineveh, the great capital of Assyria. Judah’s days were numbered, for God would use the wicked Babylonians to conquer His people and punish their sins. Habakkuk asked God “why do you look on those who deal treacherously, and hold your tongue when the wicked devours a person more righteous than he? He asked this on behalf of their nation, then he awaited God’s answer.

 

Habakkuk 2 – God answered His Prayer

Habakkuk said, “I will stand my watch and set myself on the rampart and watch to see what He will say to me.” God answered His questioning prophet, explaining that while He would use Babylon to punish Judah, the Babylonians wouldn’t even know that they were pawns in His hands. Babylon’s pride and power would eventually be its downfall. God told Habakkuk to be patient and in the end, He would make everything right. Habakkuk was afraid when God’s answer came. Wicked people fear God because He will punish them for their rebellious ways. For God’s people, those who appealed to the Lord for mercy, this fear is solemn reverence, or awe of God. It is a healthy respect of God’s perfect ways and His power. God still speaks, still reveals Himself to His people, still does miracles. Our response should always be reverence and awe that the all-powerful God works in our lives. God’s people must trust Him completely, even in the face of tragic events.

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Nahum 3 - The Woe of Nineveh

 

Nahum 3 – The Woe of Nineveh.

 

The Assyrian goddess of sex and war was Ishtar, a harlot. God would expose Assyria’s shame and make her vile.

 

How could drunken soldiers hope to win a war! The nation had to drink God’s cup of wrath (Jer. 25:15-29).

 

Ripe figs will fall easily when the tree is shaken, and these figs would fall right into the farmer’s mouth! Nineveh’s defenses were inadequate, and the city would fall right into the enemy’s hands.

 

Assyria had swarmed on other nations and stripped them, but now an army would swarm on them and empty the city of people and wealth. The great Assyrian leaders would be like cold locusts in a stupor: but when the heat came, they would wake up and try to escape. The mighty nation was just a swarm of weak insects!

 

The shepherds (leaders) were dead, and the sheep were scattered. Nobody would care for them or gather them.

 

Wounded and sick, the nation was about to die; there was no way to bring healing. Jeremiah used the same image concerning God’s people, but he promised that God would heal them (Jer. 30:12-17). For Nineveh, there was no promise of hope.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

 

Nahum 1 & 2 - God is Jealous, Long-suffering

 

Nahum 1 – God is Jealous, Long-suffering

 

God deserves total obedience and will not permit any rivals. It is the jealousy of the husband over his wife or the mother over her child. He is jealous over His people and for His glory; therefore, He must punish sin.

 

God does not have “temper tantrums”. He patiently waits for sinners to hear His word and repent.

 

He has His way because His way is best, and He is totally in control. He commands the forces of nature, and not one can stand before His anger.

 

Nineveh will be destroyed by a flood and a fire; but God’s people will be safe in their refuge, Jehovah God (Psalm 46). Judah had been afflicted by Assyria, but that would now end, and the yoke would be taken off. Judah would hear the good news from the courier that Nineveh had been destroyed!

 

Nahum 2 The Invasion

 

It was not the Babylonians and the Medes who defeated Assyria; it was the Lord God of Israel. (Isa. 10:5-19).

 

The watchmen on the walls see the enemy army approaching with their scarlet uniforms and shields and their swift chariots. The general puts his best troops on the wall, but they stumble over one another and cannot move fast enough.

 

The invaders dam up a river and release the water, which destroys part of the city wall and the palace. The people start to flee, many are taken captive, and the city is pillaged.

 

Assyria was identified with the lion, an image in many of their scriptures. But the Assyrian lion would devour no longer; for it had been devoured! Assyria would roar no more and kill no more, but Judah would be restored and enjoy the blessing of God.

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Micah 7 - A Faithful, Righteous, Pardoning God

 

Micah 7 – A Faithful, Righteous, Pardoning God

 

Micah was disgusted because the people were all given over to deception. He couldn’t even find one faithful man (1 Kings 19:10). Even the best of those around Micah – the supposed “upright” were a fruitless, prickly bunch. Micah is the watchman here, representing all the prophets who warned of the impending captivity that was now at hand.

 

Rivalries and distrust often cause people to make choices that destroy what they love the most. Dishonesty, bribery, commercialism, and idol worship had led to family breakdown. When people fail you, remember that the Lord is always faithful. Make the same decision that Micah made” “I will look, I will wait, I will pray.”

 

God lifts those who fall and gives light to those who are in the darkness. Even when He must deal with us because of our sins. He does what is best. Be patient, for He will one day defeat your enemies and bring you into blessing. Speaking for the remnant who trust God, Micah expresses the hope that remains despite the coming judgment: God will vindicate the faithful, being their light and salvation. This confidence should characterize God’s people in the face of any difficulty. The promised victory will be a global triumph from sea to sea. Egypt and Assyria represent the nations of earth that will come under the reign of God at the promised restoration (Isa 19:23-25).

 

Christ’s kingdom will be established with wonders that will exceed Israel’s exodus from Egypt. God’s power, faithfulness, and covenant love for His people will be on display for opposing nations to see and fear.

 

God delights in mercy! When we come to Him and confess our sins, He pardons us, puts our sins underfoot like defeated enemies and hurls them into the depths of the sea and they are seen no more. (Jer. 31:34; Acts 3:19).

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Micah 5 & 6 - Israel's Deliverer

 

Micah 5 – Israel’s Deliverer

 

Micah tells the difference of great Jerusalem, experiencing the Babylonian siege, and humble Bethlehem, where the Eternal One will step into time to save His people. The future of God’s plan of salvation lay in lowly Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-20.

 

The birth of Messiah brought hope to Israel, but the nation would not receive Him. He had to give them up (Luke 13:34-35) until the day He returns to restore them (Rom 9). Their salvation will be the birth of a nation (Isa. 66:8), and there will be peace to the ends of the earth.

 

Messiah will win a victory over His enemies and will make His people victorious and fruitful. But He will also win a victory over His own people and purge them of their sins. The things they trusted will be removed – ornaments, fortresses, sorceries, and idols, and they will learn to trust the Lord.

 

Perhaps God wants to remove some things from your life so you can enjoy peace.

 

Micah 6 – In the Courtroom

 

God called the mountains to witness His complaint against Israel. What had He done to His people that they should despise His Word and sin against Him? Had they forgotten all that He did for them? It is good for us to review God’s gracious acts toward us and express gratitude to Him.

 

All that the people could say was, “Guilty!” The judge did not want sacrifices; He wanted obedience (Isa. 1:10-18).

 

They would feel the rod of punishment because of their sins, and their efforts would be cursed. Omri and Ahab were two of the most wicked kings who ever ruled Israel (I Kings 16:22-22:40), and the nation suffered because they followed their bad examples.

 

The judge is the Savior, but He cannot save those who persist in disobeying Him.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

Micah 3 & 4 - Hear Now!

 

Micah 3 – Hear Now!

 

Because of their sins, the nation disobeyed God and eventually had to be judged (Lam. 2:14;4:13).

 

Instead of caring for the people, the leaders treated them like animals and devoured them. But the day would come when those leaders would cry out to God and He would not answer them.

 

Instead of guiding the flock in God’s paths, they led them astray with their message of false peace. Their deception would be followed by darkness, and they would have no hope.

 

Instead of building the city on the law of the Lord, they broke the law and built with bloodshed. They wanted to get more money (I Tim 6:9-10). But everything they built would be torn down, and their money would be useless to them.

 

A true leader protects the people, guides them in God’s will, and serves without thought of personal gain.

 

Micah 4 – Four Pictures

 

Even though Jerusalem would be destroyed by Babylon, one day the city would become the capital of the kingdom. It will be a time of peace when all men will want to learn about the Lord and walk in His ways.

 

The Lord will gather His flock (the remnant) and care for the lame and afflicted. Their Shepherd will be their king, and He will reign in righteousness.

 

As the pregnant woman must deliver the child, so Judah must be taken captive to Babylon. It would be a time of pain, but it would eventually bring blessing. God promised to deliver them and restore them. Birth.

 

The day will come when God’s people defeat their enemies who seek to destroy them. It will be like the threshing of grain, and the harvest will be given to the Lord.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

Micah 1 & 2 - Judgment is Coming!

 

Micah 1 – Judgment is Coming!

 

Micah convenes the court and announces Jehovah’s verdict against Israel; judgment is coming! Assyria invaded the northern kingdom and made the capital city Samaria a heap of ruins. The nation’s idolatry was but harlotry against the Lord, and unfaithfulness must be judged.

 

But the Assyrians would also invade Judah, which they did, and would destroy nearly fifty villages. Although they tried, they could not conquer Jerusalem (Isa. 36-37), for the Lord spared it for David’s sake (Isa. 37:35).

 

The prophet wept over the terrible things that would happen to the people. He did not say, “They are getting what they deserve!” Instead, he mourned like a man at a funeral. Does the certainty of coming judgment cause us to mourn over lost sinners and seek to win them to Christ?

 

Micah 2 – Naming Sins

 

Micah names some of the sins of the people, beginning with covetousness, which is idolatry (Col. 3:5). The rich were exploiting the poor and getting away with it. But when the invader comes, nobody’s boundary lines would be respected.

 

Another sin was rejecting God’s word. The false prophets tried to silence Micah because he was announcing doom. They want a pleasant message about security and strong drink. The “prosperity preachers” are usually popular while those who declare God’s Word are often persecuted. But God’s Word does good in the lives of those who want to do good and obey the Lord.

 

They had defiled the land with their idolatry and harlotry, and now the land would destroy them. Personal sin will always affect society.

 

How gracious of God to end with a promise of hope! He will spare a remnant and gather them together for His future kingdom. Their king will be their Shepherd!

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Jonah 3 & 4 - How Gracious God is.

 

Jonah 3 & 4 – How Gracious God is.

 

How gracious God is to give us another opportunity after we have failed Him (Ps.103:8-14)! God is as much concerned about the worker as He is the work. He could have sent somebody else to preach to Nineveh, but Jonah would have missed out on the lessons he needed to learn. God wants to work in us as well as through us.

 

How gracious God is to lost sinners! Why would a holy God give the vicious Ninevites an opportunity to repent?  Because “He is not willing that any should perish.” (2 Peter 3:9) but “desire all men to be saved” (I Tim. 2:4). Do you have a burden to share the gospel with a lost world that does not deserve to be saved? Remember, somebody shared it with you!

 

How gracious God is to bless the ministry of an imperfect servant! Jonah did not love the people he preached to, yet God used his message to bring the whole city to repentance. There is power in God’s word; it can convict and convert the greatest of sinners.

 

Jonah 4 – I Delight to do Your Will

 

God wanted to save Jonah from himself. Jonah was an angry man who wanted to see Nineveh destroyed. He vented his bitterness.

 

The problem was that Jonah was not completely yielded to God. His mind knew God’s truth, and his will obeyed God’s orders; but he did not do the will of God “from the heart” (Eph. 6:6). He obeyed only because he was afraid of what God might do to him. His was not a ministry of love.

 

When we are angry with God, everything in life gets out of perspective, and we say and do selfish things. But God is long-suffering and tenderly deals with us to bring us to Himself. It is essential in Christian service to be happy with the will of God. We should be able to say, “I delight to do Your will, O my God, and Your law is within my heart.” (Ps. 40:8).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

 

 

Jonah 1 & 2 Trauma

 

Jonah 1-2 Trauma

 

Jonah was a prophet. His duty was to preach the word to the sinners. Jonah didn’t like the Assyrians, he wanted God’s judgment to destroy them. Jonah ran from God. God’s plan prevailed even through Jonah’s disobedience. His days in the whale were traumatic for him. He lost all his coloring.

Difficult experiences come in many degrees. A trauma would be considered a situation far beyond control, one that shakes a person to the core. Trauma can lead to mental disorders or suicide. Recovery is often slow; flashbacks are common. As difficult as traumatic experiences are, they can lead a person to God.

Jonah had been called to go east to Nineveh to prophesy to the Assyrians; instead, he jumped on a ship and went west. Although he was acting in direct disobedience to God, he fell sound asleep on the ship. His conscience may not have bothered him, but God soon did. God knew that His reluctant prophet would need a traumatic experience to turn him around, literally. When a fierce storm tossed the ship and threated to kill all on board, Jonah knew the reason for the storm and the solution. “Pick me up and throw me into the sea, then the sea will become calm for you. I know this great tempest is because of me.” He told the crew and they reluctantly complied.

Immediately a great fish swallowed Jonah. God spared his life because He still had work for Jonah to do. Trauma upon trauma eventually caused Jonah to pray, “I cried out to the Lord because of my affliction, and He answered me.” And this conversation with God led Jonah to promise to obey, “I will pay what I vowed.” Then God rescued Jonah and gave him the opportunity to fulfil his promise.

Traumatic experiences can drive people away from God or to Him. In both cases, a person may ask, “Why would God do this to me?” Those who turn from God ask the question in anger and accusation. Those who turn to God ask the question to learn His lesson for their lives. When traumatic experiences come, turn to God, not away. As Jonah learned: “When my soul fainted within me, I remembered the Lord; and my prayer went up to You, into Your Holy temple.”

 

Jonah didn’t deserve God’s forgiveness. God had said, “Go” and Jonah had run away. Not until Jonah sank to the gloomy depths and faced certain death did he cry out to God. Mercifully and miraculously, God answered. God saves the undeserving – whether a pagan nation or a wayward individual.

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Obadiah - Pride

 

Obadiah

 

When the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem, the Edomites rejoiced and helped the enemy instead of helping their brethren. It was a repetition of the ancient conflict between Esau and Jacob, which symbolizes the battle between flesh and spirit.

 

The Edomites were guilty of pride and looting, and God said they would be looted. They were violent and indifferent, and they rejoiced at the plight of the Jews; but God warned that they would one day be slaughtered. What they had done to others would be done to them, and there was no escape.

 

But there is a bright future for Israel, for they shall “possess their possessions”. Babylon burned the city of Jerusalem and the temple, but Israel will be a fire to burn the enemy. “And the kingdom shall be the Lord’s”.

 

Definition of pride: Exaggerated Self-esteem, conceit

Proverbs 14:3 – “In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, but the lips of the wise will preserve them”.

Proverbs 15:25 – “The Lord will destroy the house of the proud, But He will establish the boundary of the widow.”

Proverbs 16:5 – “Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord, though they join forces, none will go unpunished.”

Proverbs 16:19 – “Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly than to divide the spoil with the proud.”

 

The root of pride is really the idolatry of self – worshiping oneself instead of God.

A proud attitude says, “I don’t need God, I can handle this myself.”

Whenever people let pride control their thoughts and actions, they may succeed temporarily but ultimately they are headed for disaster.

 

Proverbs 21:4 – “A haughty look, a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked are sin.”

A man’s pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor.

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Amos 8 & 9 - The Fourth Vision

 

Amos 8 & 9 – The Fourth Vision

 

Amos’ fourth vision gave one clear message: “Israel is ripe for judgment! As the farmer cuts off the ripe fruit so God will cut off Israel. He had been long-suffering with them, but now the day of reckoning had come. The wealthy had sinned against both men and God. They were weary of their religious duties and only endured the Sabbath, waiting until they could start making money again. They changed God’s standards so that they might exploit the poor, and they cheapened their products and then raised the prices. No wonder God was angry with them.

 

Amos told them to expect an earthquake, an eclipse, a funeral, and a famine. God’s Word is our spiritual nourishment (Matt. 4:4), and there can be no substitute. When God’s people reject His Word, He sometimes judges them by taking away His Word and leaving them to go hungry as they live on substitutes.

 

In the day od judgment, not only would those celebrations be turned into mourning but there would be a famine of the words of the Lord. His truth would no longer be revealed through His prophets. Today the Bible is everywhere, but deaf ears can still produce spiritual drought.

 

Amos 9 – The destruction of Israel

 

Amos saw the Lord at the sanctuary at Bethel, where the people were carrying on their hypocritical worship. He was about to destroy the sanctuary and all the worshipers; nobody would escape. If anyone tried to escape, he would be tracked down and slain.

 

God would destroy the sanctuary at Bethel, but He would not destroy His people. He would send them among the Gentiles and sift out the true from the false. In His grace, God spares a remnant so that the nation might continue.

 

The royal dynasty of David was like a tent or booth that had fallen, but God will raise it, repair it, and restore. His people will return to their land and enjoy once again the blessings of God. Meanwhile, God is calling out His church from both Jews and Gentiles (Acts 15:6-21), and our task is to share the gospel with every creature.

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Amos 6 & 7 Death, Destruction and Defeat

 

Amos 6 & 7– Death, Destruction and Defeat.

 

Israel was guilty of complacency born of false confidence, trusting the military leaders and not the Lord. The people were also guilty of self-indulgence and unconcern for hurting persons of the land. After all, the day of judgment was far away! Or was it?

 

God appointed three judgments for them: death, destruction, and defeat. The banqueters would become corpses, and the great houses would be left in ruins. The leaders boasted of their recent victories, but Assyria would bring defeat.

 

Horses cannot safely run on the rocky cliffs, and oxen cannot plow there. But Israel was not as smart as the animals, for she was attempting the impossible: trying to escape judgment by disobeying the Lord. “We are an exception to the rule!” was the confident boast, but the people did not escape. Their sins found them out.

 

Because Israel relied too much on its military strength and too little on God, they would lose the cities they had overtaken.

 

Amos 7 Visions of the Locusts

 

After the first vision, Amos prays to God to forgive the people. After the second Vision, Amos is so overwhelmed by the coming destruction that he asks the Lord to cease from judgment.

 

Just one person’s prayers can make a difference; the Lord relented, agreeing to spare a remnant because of Amos’ prayer.

 

In the vision of the plumb line, Israel is portrayed as a misaligned wall that is leaning and ready to fall over.

 

Amos’ confrontation with Amaziah, priest of Bethel, leaves no doubt in his mind about God’s purpose in judging Israel.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

Amos 5 - Jesus is Coming!

 

Amos 5 – Jesus is Coming!

 

The first three verses are a funeral dirge for a nation that was dead and left unburied. The Assyrians would come, and Israel would be taken captive. Israel thought she was a lovely virgin, but she was only a fallen corpse, left to rot. No wonder Amos wept!

 

Bug God still gives His gracious invitation: “Seek Me and live” The people flocked to their holy places with their sacrifices, but that would not save them. The nation would not listen to the Lord’s servants, so the Lord told them to be quiet. God knows our sins, and yet in Mercy He calls us to come to Him for cleansing.

 

Amos saw the day of the Lord approaching, a day of judgment, darkness, and despair. The people had a false confidence that “the day of the Lord” would bring blessing to the nation, not unlike some believers today who think of the return of Christ only as an escape to heaven. God would send judgment despite their religious activities and generous gifts of sacrifices. God still wants obedience and not sacrifice.

 

When you pray, “Thy kingdom come,” be sure that you mean it. Do you really want the Lord Jesus to return today, or will His coming upset your plans? Some of God’s people will be ashamed when they meet Him (1 John 2:28), while others will welcome Him with joy. (I Thess. 2:19-20).

 

The joyful anticipation of His coming is a great motivation for holy living (I John 3:1-3) and faithful service (Luke 12:35-48).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary. J Vernon McGee Thru the Bible

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Amos 4 - You Have Not Returned to Me!

 

Amos 4 – You Have Not Returned to Me!

 

God’s disciplines are for the purpose of restoration, to bring people to true repentance.

 

God used several means of discipline; drought, famine, crop diseases, locusts, plagues, war, and local catastrophes, and the people did not get the message. They had met with God’s disciplines, but the next step was to meet God Himself. He was personally coming to judge them.

 

What a tragedy that the people kept living in luxury and carrying out their religious duties while ignoring the call of God. It took courage for Amos to call the wealthy women “cows” and to picture them being led away to slaughter. In their comfort and prosperity, the people thought they were immune from judgment, but it came just the same.

 

The husbands of Samaria met their wives’ demands for luxury by denying the poor justice and taking their land through taxation and usury. The wealthy women were in turn using their wealth to enrich themselves rather than to help the needy, unaware that they were fattening themselves for the slaughter of God’s judgment.

 

The people had put up a shrine in Bethel so they would not have to travel to the temple in Jerusalem for worship. So, God told Israel to continue their Hypocritical worship.

 

Are you prepared to meet God?

 

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible

 

Amos 3 - Privilege Brings Responsibility

 

Amos 3- Privilege Brings Responsibility

 

The Lord delivered the Jews from Egypt and called them to be His special people. God’s gracious election of Israel did not give them the right to disobey Him, and the same truth applies to the church today. Election involves responsibility (John 15:16; Eph. 1:4).

 

What right did a common herdsman like Amos have to denounce his own people and warn of judgment? He and God were walking together because they agreed. God was roaring like a lion and setting the trap for sinners. Amos was blowing the trumpet to warn the people because God had shared His secrets with him. Despite his humble origins, Amos was God’s servant.

 

If a shepherd lost an animal, he had to pay for it, unless he could prove that a beast killed it. He did that by bringing home some of the parts that were not devoured. Israel could hear the lion roar, but the nation would not repent. Soon, only a remnant would be left.

 

The prophet Amos denounced luxury and urged the people to care for the poor of the land. He particularly condemned their expensive houses, their drinking, their complacency, and their costly parties. The rich got their money by exploiting the poor. Yet the wealthy people were “religious” and faithfully participated in the temple services. Their “religion” was only a masquerade to cover their sin. Does any of this sound familiar to you?

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible.

 

Amos 2 - Judgment on Judah and Israel

 

Amos 2 – Judgment on Judah and Israel

 

Burning a dead person’s bones to lime was not just despicable but was considered a desecration.

 

Judgment was harsher for Judah and Israel than the other nations because they had forsaken God’s revealed and written law. Their covenant relationship with God held them to a higher standard.

 

Israel’s social injustice, materialism, self-centeredness, and willful ignorance of God were rampant. Notice that Israel’s list is the only one that names four crimes. The other nations’ lists are deliberately shortened, as if to say that Israel’s sins accumulated faster than their counterparts.

 

God had declared that the poor be afforded the same privileges and care as the rest of the society, yet the Israelites were selling their brothers and sisters into slavery.

 

Amos uses hyperbole to demonstrate how seriously the rich extorted the poor: to the point of desiring the dust on their heads. To this sin of greed, he adds injustice, sexual sin, and the cruelty of not returning clothes to the poor so they could keep warm at night.  (Ex, 22L26,27).

 

God’s faithful provision to Israel included military victory, deliverance, and spiritual leadership. As part of their consecration to the Lord, the Nazirites were to drink no wine (Numbers 6:1-21). Yet Israel had spurned God’s messengers by tempting them to sin.

 

The seven statements in these verses describe how completely devastated the Israelite army would be.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans for You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible. Through the Bible by J. Vernon McGee.

Amos 1 - Judgment on the Nations

 

Amos 1- Judgment on the Nations

 

Amos denounces the sins of six gentile nations before he pronounces judgment on Judah and Israel. God did not give His law to the gentile nations, but He still held them accountable for their sins against humanity. Israel and Judah sinned against God’s law and God’s love; but the Gentiles sinned against their “inner law,” their conscience (Rom. 2:12-16).

 

The Gentiles sinned against their fellowman. Amos condemned their brutality, slavery, revenge, murder, and thievery. The nations seemed to get away with their sins, but God eventually caught up with them. He is long-suffering, but He is also holy.

 

Being the chosen people of God, Israel and Judah had a greater responsibility before the Lord. In one way or another, they violated all the ten commandments; and that meant God would have to judge them.

 

If God judges lost people for their sins, what will He do to those who claim to know Him? Privilege brings responsibility (Luke 12:48), and where there is responsibility, there will be accountability. The people of Israel and Judah rejoiced when they heard Amos condemn their neighbors; but then he condemned God’s people for their sins, and that was not acceptable to them.

 

Is God being long-suffering toward you? Is His judgment of others a warning to You? Are you heeding it?

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

The Book of Joel

 

The Book of Joel

 

Special days seem like nothing compared to the special day that Joel speaks of here in these chapters. He calls it the “day of the Lord” to remind the people of recent disasters of a devastating locust plague. He tells the Israelites about this to warn them of a greater judgment to come. Joel calls this a “great and very terrible day.” This day does not need to be terrible for God's people. It will be a day of decision of whether to follow God or to go our own way (Satan's way). When we decide to follow God, He promises to be a shelter for his people. God always wants to bring us to a deep repentance that will lead to the renewal and restoration of our souls. A day of the Lord is still to come when he returns for His people. If we belong to Christ, we can look forward to that day of the Lord with great anticipation. Joel encouraged the Israelites to remind their children of the locusts that God had sent on their land, so the children would learn the lesson God was teaching Israel. The prophet Joel lived during the time of prosperity in Judah. The wealthier and more prosperous the people became, the more complacent they became toward God until they had forgotten Him completely. So, God sent locust to devour the land. Joel declared that this plague was a wakeup call. We dare not forget the source of our prosperity. God owns everything, and we are responsible to Him for how we use His resources. In the middle of this book filled with warning and judgment stands a profound picture of God's mercy. Over the clamor of invading armies and devouring locusts, God issues a clear invitation “turn to Me with all your heart.” During judgment, God offers mercy to those who repent. He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness. Regardless of the circumstances, God says turn to Me. When we call out to our gracious and merciful God, He hears and answers. God delights in doing miracles. He loves turning hopeless situations into delightful possibilities. Joel warned his people that a terrible army would invade their land and destroy their hope. Even the very heavens and earth would tremble at the devastation. in the face of such disaster Joel spoke of a day when God would do more marvelous things. God's works are truly marvelous. We should praise the name of the Lord. Joel predicted that God's grand invitation to turn to Him would be offered to all people. “Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Christians are the beneficiaries of God's outpouring. The world has not been the same since the day a small band of apostles were energized by God's spirit on the day of Pentecost. On that day Peter quoted this passage from Joel and encouraged people to repent and believe in Christ. All who accepted this call and receive God's spirit fulfill this prophecy of God's grace. Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better. If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.J.Vernon McGee Thru the Bible. Nelson’s Quick Reference. Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Hosea 12 - 14 - God's Charges and Restoration

 

Hosea 12 – God’s Charges Against Ephraim

 

A genuine return to God would involve a commitment to mercy and justice as well as true dependence on the Lord (Psalm 27:14).

 

The historical retrospective of God’s saving role in Israel’s history included their time in Egypt (Ex. 20:2), the story of Jacob (Genesis 28-31) and a prophet, Moses (Numb. 12:6-8), and the anger that the current idol worship of Ephraim provoked. For this the people were about to suffer. (Isaiah 65:7).

 

Hosea 13 – Relentless Judgment on Israel

 

The tribe of Ephraim initially produced strong, God-fearing leaders like Joshua, but eventually became overly self-confident and prone to idol worship. In contrast, the everlasting God reminds Ephraim of her past and His loyal love for her. “I knew you in the wilderness. (Deut. 8:14; 31:20).

 

Hosea painted startling pictures of the coming judgment of God with the lion, the leopard, and the bear and then the heightened terror with references to infants, dashed in pieces and pregnant women, ripped open by the Assyrians. These images reveal God’s power over death (I Cor. 15:55).

 

Hosea 14 – Israel Restored at Last

 

Hosea again urges the people to return to God with true words of repentance. God’s incredible grace and love are shown by His eagerness for their return (Joel 2:13).

 

The beautiful pictures of repentant Israel as a lily and an olive tree illustrate the transformation in any heart that confesses and turn from sin and then humbly accepts God’s loving gifts of mercy. (John 15:4).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

J, Vernon McGee Through the Bible