Keys to Effective Living

~ Life Lessons from Amos ~

Amos was a prophet of God’s justice and righteousness and his name means “bearer” or “born of God.” While his prophecy contains the word righteousness only three times, the theme of his book can be summarized as the righteousness of God. He emphasizes that one cannot have true religion without ethics (i.e., 7:10-17) because righteousness expresses itself in everyday honesty and fair dealings.

One outline of the book of Amos is:

Introduction (1:1-2)

A series of oracles (1:3-2:16) 

A series of sermons (3:1-6:14)

A series of visions (7:1-9:10)

Conclusion (9:11-15)

Many believe the key word in the book of Amos is “threatened” and the key verse is 5:24, “But let justice run down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream.” 

What can we learn in 2012 from the life of the prophet Amos? Here are a few ideas:

First, you can begin as a non-professional in whatever you have to do for God. 

Second, Amos gave us an example of someone who possessed a broad knowledge of life and the people living around him.

Third, make sure you’re working in a place of significance. In other words find out where God is working and join Him there.   

Fourth, justice is of paramount concern to God and it should be for His children.

Fifth, Amos spoke the truth even though it was not an easy message (i.e., Amos 5). 

Finally, Amos acted upon his convictions and called upon the people of his day to repent and to change their ways.

suggestion:  Take time today to read and meditate on the book of Amos.

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW