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The Amish Voice 9
chosen people suffered the consequences of
their rebellion and fell into captivity.
God’s heart, of course, is not to bring
destruction. Consider the encouraging story
of Jonah in which God worked to bring the
wicked city of Nineveh to repentance in
order that the people might escape His
imminent judgment. In fact, it is the nature
of the Lord to give warnings before
judgment so that people may repent and
judgment be averted.
In keeping with this, the Lord has in recent
years given the U.S. any number of
warnings, including natural disasters, acts of
terror, financial woes, cultural breakdown,
political dysfunction, and the loss of
prominence and might. Along with this are
prophetic warnings calling America to
repentance. Sadly, however, there has been
little response at this point.
Lessons from Amos
The message of the prophet Amos is one that
our nation would do well to take to
heart. The message begins with a series of
proclamations of judgment on various
nations and cities because of their
transgressions. The prophet then focuses on
the punishment awaiting Israel, whose sin
is even greater because of the privilege she
had enjoyed as God’s chosen nation. The
Lord had sent remedial judgments to bring
her to repentance (Amos 4:6-11), but she
would not return to Him. He then gives this
solemn word:
“Prepare to meet thy God, O
Israel”
(4:12).
Even with the declaration of certain
judgment, Amos yet calls the people to
repentance.
“Seek the Lord, and ye shall
live; lest he break out like fire.
…”
(5:6).
“Hate the evil, and love the good,
and establish judgment in the gate: it may be
that the Lord God of hosts will be gracious
unto the remnant of Joseph”
(5:15).
At the same time, Amos has strong words for
those who are complacent:
“Woe to them
that are at ease in Zion…that lie upon beds
of ivory, and stretch themselves upon their
couches,,”
those who
“… anoint themselves
with the chief ointments: but they are not
grieved for the affliction of Joseph” (6:1-6).
Judgment Delayed
Through Intercession
When the Lord showed Amos one picture
and then another of devastating judgment
approaching the land, Amos interceded both
times and the Lord relented (7:1-6), but the
third picture was final:
“I will set a
plumbline in the midst of my people Israel: I
will not again pass by them any more”
(7:7-
9).
In other words, the people had fallen so far
from God’s standard that no further reprieve
would be granted; and, indeed, horrible
judgment did come and the nation was taken
into captivity. Thankfully, however, Amos’
message ends with the Lord’s glorious
promise of the restoration of Israel! (9:11-
15).
Is There Any Hope?
So back to the original question: Is there any
hope for the U.S.?
While some people may argue no, and others
argue yes, one truth is clear: If there is any
hope, the only hope is in wide-scale
repentance and returning to the Lord. While
the promised end-time outpouring of the
Spirit and revival is coming, that does not
necessarily guarantee the U.S. will be part of
it. The Lord has been incredibly patient with
this nation, but without repentance, judgment
may suddenly be upon us.
Of course, judgment begins with the
household of God (1 Pet. 4:17), and He calls
His people to lead the way in turning back to
Him (2 Chr. 7:14).
Given the lukewarm state of many in the
church, it is up to those who still have any
sensitivity to the Lord to lead the way in
humility, prayer, and repentance. As we turn
our attention fully toward Him, may He have
mercy upon our land and send the revival
that is so desperately needed!
2 Chronicles 7:14 says:
If my people,
which are called by my name, shall humble
themselves, and pray, and seek my face,
and turn from their wicked ways; then will
I hear from heaven, and will forgive their
sin, and will heal their land.
The Plumb Line, continued
END
What Is a True Relationship?
A true relationship is based on two people putting
100% of their trust in each other. Anything less than
100% trust is not a perfect relationship. As much as
that statement is true, it is also true that perfect
relationships are not build overnight. It takes months,
sometimes years. And lastly, let us not forget that
years and years of trust can crumble in a moment of
time. So let us stay focused today and truly value and
appreciate the trust that has been built between me and
God, between me and my spouse, and between me and
my friend(s). Hold on to it! Consider it precious! and
value that trust like you do your own life. —Joe Keim