Wednesday, September 21, 2022

I will bring back I will bring back the captives of My people Israel; they shall build the waste cities and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and drink wine from them; they shall also make gardens and eat fruit from them.

Amos 9:14

Amos, the prophet, had a very difficult job. He was charged to warn the Israelites of their impending doom. He declared that God would allow them to be destroyed; as their army would be disgraced, and they would be sent away in exile. God’s people trusted in their military expertise and their temple rituals. They had a difficult time receiving the news that these things would not protect them from the judgment of their God. Their end was coming.

Our God, who causes an end, will always give hope for a new beginning. There is never a message of judgment without one of restoration and hope; thus, Amos ends his book with the words from our scripture today. He tells God’s people that God will bring them back, and they will be able to rebuild.

If you are like me, you have seen your share of endings – seen things torn down and destroyed. While we must consult God about what to do with endings, we should lean into Him so we know what to rebuild.

PRAYER: While there are some things you tell us not to rebuild, there are certainly some things that you command us to rebuild. Give me the discernment and wisdom to know what to rebuild. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.