October 27, 2008

• Are we in a time of shaking?

  God never wanted to punish Israel, but He had to get their attention and cause them to consider the consequences of their actions. He told Amos that, just like grain, Israel needed to be shaken out of its complacency. They must be shaken through problems, until they humbled themselves and turned to Him.

  But many refused to listen. God warned that judgment was inevitable, particularly for those who smugly continued to sin and boast, “The calamity will not overtake or confront us.”

  The Bible often warns of shaking in the context of judgment, as when “the earth will be shaken from its place” (Isaiah 13:13). But during times of shaking, God also provided hope for those who remained faithful, who cast their burdens on Him, and who lived rightly in His sight (Psalm 16:8, Psalm 55:22). The wicked may experience trouble, but the “righteous will never be shaken” (Proverbs 10:30).

  In our time, God is shaking the nations. He wants them to think about their lives, consider the consequences of their actions, and realize they’ve sinned and disobeyed His laws. Just as during Amos’ time, God calls His people to be ready to speak His words, to be sensitive to His Spirit, to warn of the consequences of sin, and to seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness.

  There may be shaking all around you, but be sure to focus on God. Cast your burdens on Him. Trust in Him as your Rock. Live for Him and obey Him. Then, you never will be shaken.

  • 6:45 am
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