Just Do the Next Thing
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
We have all been there. You stare at a to-do list that feels a mile long. You are standing at the edge of a massive life change, a new business venture, or a season of grief, and the path ahead looks like a mountain shrouded in fog.
The paralysis sets in. We overthink. We strategize for problems that haven’t happened yet. We worry about five years from now when we haven’t even started today.
When the late missionary and author Elisabeth Elliot faced the tragic death of her husband, Jim Elliot, on January 8, 1956, she found herself alone in the jungle with a toddler and a mission station to run. She was paralyzed by the magnitude of her responsibilities. It was then that she remembered an old Saxon poem she had once read. It became her mantra for survival and eventually, her strategy for thriving. It was simply this: Do the next thing.
Thankfully, most of us never have to face the same loss, yet this advice is just as wise for our everyday lives. I’ve learned this in my thirty-seven years of dedicating my life to God.
As a young Christian, I believed God’s will was something I had to decipher by sifting through His Word, deciding what His plan was for me, and heading straight toward it. Instead, I have a greater picture of who God designed me to be. God’s will is really about sitting before Him day by day, praying, reading His words, and seeking where His whisper leads me. God’s will is to be so in line with Him that I naturally go the right way. It is not a “this is your life” moment; it is a “this is a moment” life.
The Wisdom of the Immediate
The poem that Elliot famously quoted goes like this:
“Do it immediately; do it with prayer;
Do it reliantly, casting all care;
Do it with reverence, tracing His hand
Who placed it before thee with earnest command.
Stayed on Omnipotence, safe ‘neath His wing,
Leave all results, do the next thing.”
This isn’t just poetic advice. It is also a deeply biblical strategy for peace. When we look too far into the future, we invite anxiety. When we look only at the task immediately in front of us, we find grace.
The Theology of the “Next Step”
The Bible rarely promises us a spotlight that illuminates the entire future. Instead, it promises a lantern.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." — Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
A lamp doesn’t light up the whole forest. Instead, it only lights the ground right in front of your feet. A lamp illuminates just enough for the next step. God is teaching us that we don’t need to see the destination to make progress. We just need to trust Him with the movement.
Jesus echoed this in the Sermon on the Mount, reminding us that “overthinking” is actually a spiritual issue of misplaced trust:
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” — Matthew 6:34 (NIV)
How to Practice “Doing the Next Thing”
Whether you are writing a book, launching a startup, or just trying to get your house in order, here is how to apply Elliot’s advice today:
1. Shrink Your Horizon
Stop looking at the finish line. If you are writing a book, don’t worry about the publishing deal. It’s better to just write the next paragraph … otherwise you’ll just get paralyzed! If you are getting healthy, don’t worry about the marathon. Putting on your running shoes and going for a walk around the block is a great way to start. Also, invite someone to join you on your journey. You’re more likely to make it to the finish line if you have a walking partner.
“Despise not the day of small beginnings.” (Zechariah 4:10)
2. Sanctify the Simple
Sometimes “the next thing” is spiritual, but often it is incredibly ordinary. It might be washing the dishes, sending that one brave email, or folding the laundry. Doing these small things with “reverence,” as the poem says, turns menial labor into an act of worship.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23)
3. Leave the Results to God
The poem advises us to “leave all results.” This is the hardest part for high achievers. We want to control the outcome. Our job is the input, and God’s job is the outcome. Remember that!
“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (Proverbs 16:3)
Moving Forward
If you feel stuck today, take a breath. You don’t need to figure out the rest of your life. You don’t even need to figure out the rest of the week. Ask yourself: What is the one thing I can do right now that needs doing?
Not the biggest thing. Not the most impressive thing. Just the next thing.
Then, do it. And then do the next.
The “Do The Next Thing” Classics
- “Just because things change doesn’t mean you chose wrong in the first place… Do the next right thing in love.”
— Emily P. Freeman, The Next Right Thing - “We are not responsible for the past, and we cannot manage the future. Our responsibility is the immediate present.”
— Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest - “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”
— Martin Luther King Jr. - “The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex, overwhelming tasks into small, manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one.”
— Mark Twain - You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.”
— Zig Ziglar
7 Questions to Discover Your Next Step
When the path feels obscured, stop looking at the horizon and start looking at the ground beneath your feet. Ask yourself these seven questions to find clarity in the small, immediate tasks:
- What is the one task I am avoiding right now that I know needs to be done?
- Does this next step honor the commitments I have already made to my family and my work?
- If I were to act with total trust in God’s sovereignty rather than my own anxiety, what would I do first?
- What is the smallest, most manageable piece of this mountain that I can climb in the next hour?
- Is this step rooted in the wisdom of Scripture, or is it a reaction to the pressure of the world?
- Does this task allow me to be present with God, or does it require me to hide from Him?
- What is the “next thing” that would best serve the people God has placed in my care today?
A Prayer for the Next Step
Lord, thank You for being the Light that guides my feet even when the way ahead is shrouded in fog. Forgive me for the times I have paralyzed myself by trying to see the entire mountain when You have only asked me to climb one step at a time. Help me to stop straining for the future and instead rest in the grace of the present moment. May my heart be so aligned with Yours that my next step is naturally a step toward You. Quiet my striving, steady my hands, and give me the courage to simply do the next thing in obedience and love. Amen.
Want more insight? Join us on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
📖 Introducing the Daily Bible Podcast
Audio Player! 🔊
Immerse yourself in God’s Word like never before with the MegaVoice Daily Bible Podcast Audio Player—a solar-powered, portable way to listen to the entire NIV Bible and the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia Goyer and Michelle Hill!
✔️ Unplug & Listen – Step away from digital distractions and enjoy an uninterrupted discipleship experience.
✔️ Simple & Accessible – With easy controls, it’s perfect for all ages, including kids, seniors, and the visually impaired.
✔️ Listen Anywhere, Anytime – Solar-powered with up to 14 hours of battery life, plus a USB charging option for cloudy days.
💡 Whether you’re at home, on a mission trip, or enjoying quiet time in nature, this MegaVoice Audio Bible Player helps you stay connected to God’s Word—without a screen!
🎧 Get yours today and experience the Bible in a whole new way!
Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
June 15
2 Kings 2 & 4
A Day of Divine Wonders
Today, we delve into a series of miraculous events during a time when many had strayed from God, yet He continued to work through a faithful remnant. Witnessing these acts of divine intervention is truly exciting and inspiring.
The Ascension of Elijah and Elisha’s Inheritance
2 Kings 2 recounts the miraculous story of the prophet Elijah being taken to heaven and his disciple Elisha inheriting a double portion of his spirit. As they traveled from Gilgal to Bethel to Jericho, Elijah repeatedly instructed Elisha to stay behind, but Elisha insisted on accompanying him, saying, “As surely as the Lord lives and as you live, I will not leave you.”
Upon reaching the Jordan River, Elijah struck the water with his cloak, parting it so they could cross on dry ground. Once across, Elijah asked Elisha what he could do for him before being taken away. Elisha requested a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. As they continued, a chariot of fire with horses of fire appeared, separating them, and Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind. Elisha saw this and cried out, “My father, my father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel!” Elisha then picked up Elijah’s cloak and struck the Jordan River, parting the waters just as Elijah had, signifying that Elijah’s spirit now rested on him.
Elisha’s first miracles included purifying the water supply in Jericho and cursing a group of young men who mocked him, resulting in two bears mauling 42 of them.
Elisha’s Miracles and Acts of Compassion
2 Kings 4 shows God’s power through Elisha in various personal and community miracles.
- The Widow’s Oil: A poor widow sought Elisha’s help to save her sons from slavery. Elisha instructed her to gather as many jars as possible and pour her small amount of oil into them. Miraculously, the oil continued to flow until all the jars were full, providing enough to pay her debts and sustain her family.
- The Shunammite Woman’s Son: A wealthy couple built a room for Elisha. The woman, childless, was promised a son by Elisha, and she bore a child the following year. The child later became ill and died, but Elisha prayed to God and restored the boy’s life.
- Famine in Gilgal: Elisha purified a pot of stew that was poisoned, making it safe to eat.
- Feeding a Hundred People: Elisha multiplied a small amount of bread and grain to feed a hundred people, with leftovers remaining, anticipating Jesus’ miracle of feeding the 5,000.
Word of the Day: Given
Definition: Freely transfer the possession of something to someone.
Embracing God’s Gifts
Throughout these stories, we see many instances of God giving abundantly:
- Prophecies were given about Elijah’s ascension.
- Judgment was given to the youth who mocked Elisha.
- Provision was given to a widow through the miracle of the oil.
- Life was given back to the Shunammite’s son.
- Miracles were given to purify poisoned stew and multiply bread.
The most remarkable gift was the double portion of Elijah’s spirit given to Elisha. This double portion was traditionally reserved for the firstborn, symbolizing a significant inheritance and responsibility. Just as Elisha received Elijah’s spirit, we can seek and embrace the unique blessings God has given us.
- Deuteronomy 21:17: “But he shall acknowledge the firstborn, the son of the unloved, by giving him a double portion of all that he has…”
- Isaiah 61:7: “Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion…”
Reflect on what God has given you. Embrace your blessings without comparing them to others. Shift your focus from others’ abundance to your unique gifts and responsibilities.
God’s Generosity
God’s giving nature is seen throughout these miracles and extends to us:
- His Son for our salvation
- His mercy and grace
- His steadfast love
- Life, breath, and the beauty of creation
We must recognize and be grateful for God’s continual generosity, understanding that He gives us everything we need to live a life of faith and purpose.
- John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…”
- James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights…”
Let us remember to depend on God, seek His gifts, and use them to glorify Him in our daily lives.
June 16
2 Kings 5-8
Miracles and Famine
Naaman’s Healing (2 Kings 5)
Naaman, a commander of the army of Aram, suffered from leprosy. During a raid in Israel, he captured a young girl who suggested to Naaman’s wife that the prophet Elisha could heal him. Naaman sought Elisha, who instructed him to wash in the River Jordan. Initially resistant, Naaman eventually complied and was miraculously healed, declaring, “there is no God in all the world except in Israel.” Elisha’s servant, Gehazi, deceitfully asked for gifts from Naaman and was struck with leprosy as a consequence.
Miraculous Acts of Elisha (2 Kings 6)
- Lost Ax Head: A prophet lost his borrowed ax head in the Jordan River. Elisha threw a stick into the river, making the iron float.
- Aramean Army Blinded: The king of Aram sought to capture Elisha, but Elisha prayed for the army to be struck with blindness and led them to the king of Israel. They were fed and released, resulting in peace for Israel.
- Siege of Samaria: King Ben-Hadad of Aram besieged Samaria, causing a severe famine. The situation was dire, leading to cannibalism. Elisha prophesied that the famine would end, and the next day, food was plentiful in the markets, fulfilling God’s promise.
Fulfillment of Prophecy (2 Kings 7)
Four lepers discovered the Aramean camp abandoned. The Arameans had fled, fearing an attack, leaving behind supplies that ended the famine in Samaria. The king’s aide, who doubted Elisha’s prophecy, was trampled to death in the rush for food.
Elisha’s Continued Ministry (2 Kings 8)
Elisha warned a woman about a seven-year famine, and she moved to Philistine territory. Upon her return, the king restored her property after hearing her story from Gehazi. Elisha also prophesied the rise of Hazael as king of Aram, leading to King Ben-Hadad’s murder. Meanwhile, in Judah, Jehoram, married to Ahab’s daughter, led the people into idolatry. Despite his evil reign, God did not destroy Judah because of His covenant with David.
Word of the Day: Famine
Definition: Extreme scarcity of food.
Famine is often a result of natural causes like drought, leading to a scarcity of food and death. We read about famines throughout the Bible, each bringing physical and spiritual hunger. Today, we see a physical famine caused by a siege and a spiritual famine caused by a lack of godly leadership. Staying in God’s Word helps prevent a spiritual famine in our lives.
Eradicating Sin
We need to destroy sin in our lives completely, just as Israel was instructed to destroy the Moabites entirely. Even a small remnant of sin can grow and cause spiritual decay.
- Romans 6:12: “Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.”
- Ephesians 4:22-24: “You were taught…to put off your old self…to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”
Choosing Alliances Wisely
Jehoshaphat’s alliance with Ahaziah led to disaster. We must be cautious about our associations to avoid aiding the spread of evil. Aligning with those who do not follow God can lead us astray.
- 2 Corinthians 6:14: “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common?”
- Proverbs 13:20: “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
God’s love remains steadfast despite physical or spiritual famine. He is ready to change any situation when we turn to Him. Reflect on the unique gifts God has given you and use them to glorify Him.
June 17
2 Chronicles 21:8-20, 2 Kings 8:23-29, 2 Chronicles 22:1-9, 2 Kings 9, 2 Kings 10:1-31
Balancing Zeal with Devotion
Today, we backtrack to familiar names and stories from different angles.
Edom rebels against Judah, and Jehoram faces their forces but escapes. However, he receives a dire prophecy from Elijah due to his evil actions. The prophecy comes true as Jehoram suffers a painful death, surrounded by enemies and without mourning from his people.
In Israel, Joram, Ahab’s son, reigns while Ahaziah, Jehoram’s son, becomes king of Judah. Their alliance through marriage leads to both kings meeting Jehu, whom the Lord anointed to destroy Ahab’s house. Jehu’s secret anointing sets off a chain of dramatic events, fulfilling God’s prophecies through Elijah.
Word of the Day: Prophecy
Definition: To forecast, foretell, or predict (from the Divine)
This word resonates deeply today as God’s promises and prophecies are fulfilled. In 1 Kings 19:15-18, God instructed Elijah to anoint Hazael, Jehu, and Elisha, prophesying their roles in His divine plan. Today’s reading vividly demonstrates the fulfillment of these prophecies, showcasing God’s unwavering faithfulness.
Reflecting on God’s Faithfulness
As we dive into these intense narratives, we witness the fulfillment of God’s words through Elijah. Despite the chaotic and brutal events, one thing remains clear: God keeps His promises. From the fall of Ahab’s house to the gruesome demise of Jezebel, each prophecy unfolds with precision.
This reminds us of the vastness of God’s plan and the certainty of His word. When God speaks, His words hold power and truth. Reflecting on this can bolster our faith and trust in Him, knowing His promises are steadfast.
Trust in God’s Word
The story of Jehu is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and the importance of obedience. Jehu was anointed to bring divine judgment upon Ahab’s descendants and the worshipers of Baal. His zeal and determination were commendable, yet he fell short in his devotion to God.
Jehu executed his mission precisely but failed to obey God’s law fully. This highlights a crucial lesson: zeal for righteousness must be coupled with a personal relationship with God. It’s not enough to fight for what is right; we must also walk closely with God, submitting our hearts and lives to Him.
Jehu’s story serves as both an inspiration and a warning. Fighting against visible evils and injustices is more accessible, but nurturing a personal relationship with God requires humility and dedication. Let’s strive to balance our zeal for righteousness with a deep, personal devotion to God, ensuring that our actions align with His will.
As we continue our journey through the Bible, remember that God’s prophecies and promises are reliable. He is a big, big God, and getting to know Him better through His word is the greatest adventure we can embark on. Trust in His faithfulness, and let His word guide your path.
June 18
2 Kings 10:32-36, 2 Kings 11, 2 Kings 12:1-16, 2 Chronicles 22:10-12, 2 Chronicles 23, 2 Chronicles 24:1-22
Building Inner Conviction
Today’s reading is packed with intrigue, drama, and divine intervention! Upon King Ahaziah’s death, his mother, Athaliah, seizes the throne and orders the execution of all royal heirs. Ahaziah’s sister Jehosheba, wife of the priest Jehoiada, rescues Joash, hiding him in the temple for six years. In the seventh year, Jehoiada reveals Joash, makes a covenant with commanders, and crowns him king. Athaliah’s plot is thwarted, and Joash begins his reign, restoring worship in the temple.
Word of the Day: Plotted
Definition: To secretly make plans to carry out or devise the sequence of events in.
Queen Athaliah plotted to seize the throne, while the priest Jehoiada plotted to restore the Davidic line. This story is a reminder that unrighteous plots cannot prevail against God’s plans.
Reflecting on God’s Sovereignty
Though intense, the drama in today’s reading highlights God’s sovereign control over history. Despite Athaliah’s wicked schemes, God’s plan for David’s descendants to remain on the throne prevails. Jehoiada’s plot to protect Joash and restore him as king is a testament to godly wisdom and strategic planning.
Jehoiada’s efforts not only secured Joash’s throne but also reinstated the rightful worship of God in the temple. However, Joash’s reign was not without flaws. Despite his initial obedience to God, he failed to eradicate pagan worship. This partial obedience led to eventual downfall after Jehoiada’s death, illustrating the importance of sustained, heartfelt devotion to God.
True Obedience and Lasting Conviction
Joash’s story offers valuable lessons on the nature of obedience and spiritual leadership. Faithful obedience stems from inner conviction rather than merely following directions. Joash did what was right while Jehoiada was alive, but once the priest died, he strayed. This shift underscores the necessity of instilling lasting spiritual values rather than relying on external guidance.
We, too, risk losing our spiritual bearings if we depend solely on external authorities. Developing a personal, heartfelt relationship with God is crucial, ensuring our actions align with His will out of genuine conviction.
Jehoiada’s faithful plotting and Joash’s initial obedience remind us of the importance of godly influence and the perils of superficial compliance. Reflecting on this story, let’s cultivate a deep, personal devotion to God, guiding our actions by inner conviction rather than external pressure.
As we continue our journey through the Bible, remember that God’s plans are sovereign, and His promises are steadfast. Trust in His faithfulness, and let His word shape your heart and life.
June 19
2 Kings 13, 2 Chronicles 24:23-27
God’s Limitless Love
In today’s Bible passages, we encounter the end of Jehoahaz’s reign and the beginning of Jehoash’s rule in Israel, alongside the continuation of Joash’s story in Judah. Jehoahaz did evil in the Lord’s sight, leading to Israel’s defeat by King Hazael and Ben-Hadad. However, when Jehoahaz prayed for mercy, God listened, but the people continued to sin. His son, Jehoash, followed in his father’s footsteps and refused to turn from Jeroboam’s sins.
In Judah, King Joash’s story ends tragically as he attempts to bargain with King Hazael by sending treasures from the temple, only to be defeated by the Arameans. His advisors then plot and succeed in taking his life.
Amidst this, we also witness a poignant moment as the prophet Elisha nears death. King Joash visits Elisha, who gives him prophetic instructions involving arrows, symbolizing victories over Aram. Joash’s limited obedience results in only three victories, showcasing the impact of his actions. After Elisha’s death, a miracle occurs when a dead man revives upon touching Elisha’s bones, displaying God’s enduring power and compassion towards Israel despite their disobedience.
Word of the Day: Limit
Definition: Restrictions on the size or amount of something permissible or possible.
Reflecting on God’s Sovereignty and Mercy
Today’s readings reveal the limits of human actions contrasted with God’s limitless love and mercy. Despite the continual sin and partial obedience of Israel’s kings, God’s compassion endures, rooted in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His promises tempered His anger. And while human actions may be flawed and limited, God’s faithfulness remains steadfast.
Joash and Jehoahaz had opportunities to turn to God entirely, but their limited commitments led to partial victories and continued struggles. This serves as a reminder of the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. The story of Elisha and Joash emphasizes how limited actions can affect the extent of God’s blessings and victories in our lives.
True Obedience and Lasting Conviction
The narratives of these kings teach us valuable lessons on obedience and spiritual leadership. Joash did what was right while Jehoiada was alive but strayed once he was gone. This shift underscores the necessity of instilling lasting spiritual values rather than relying on external guidance.
We, too, risk losing our spiritual bearings if we depend solely on external authorities. Developing a personal, heartfelt relationship with God is crucial, ensuring our actions align with His will out of genuine conviction.
The stories of Jehoahaz, Jehoash, and Joash highlight the limits of human effort and the limitless nature of God’s love and mercy. Despite their failures, God remained faithful to His covenant. This reminds us that we can trust God’s unfailing love and compassion even when we fall short.
Let’s cultivate deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions. Recognize our human limitations and lean into God’s limitless grace and mercy. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
June 20
2 Kings 14:1-27, 2 Chronicles 25, 2 Kings 13:12-13, 2 Kings 15:1-5, 2 Chronicles 26:1-21, Jonah 1-4
Awestruck by God’s Power
We begin with King Amaziah of Judah, who started his reign at 25 and ruled for 29 years. Amaziah initially followed God’s ways but failed to eradicate idolatry from the land altogether. He achieved military victories, such as defeating the Edomites and capturing Petra. However, after bringing home idols and worshipping them, God sent a prophet to question his actions, asking, “Why do you turn to gods who could not even save their people from you?”
Amaziah’s pride led him to provoke Jehoash, king of Israel, resulting in a disastrous defeat for Judah. This loss included the destruction of Jerusalem’s walls and the loss of treasures from the royal palace. Amaziah’s reign ended in assassination, leading to his son Azariah (Uzziah) taking the throne at 16. Uzziah ruled for 52 years, achieving military victories and strengthening Jerusalem’s defenses because he sought God.
However, Uzziah’s pride led to his downfall. He unlawfully entered the temple to burn incense, and God struck him with leprosy, which afflicted him until his death.
The Journey of Jonah
Jonah first appears during Jeroboam II’s reign, prophesying the restoration of Israel’s boundaries. But in the Book of Jonah, God commands him to go to Nineveh and rebuke their wickedness. Jonah’s reluctance and subsequent flight lead to a storm, his being thrown overboard and swallowed by a large fish. After three days, Jonah prays and is delivered.
Jonah obeys God’s command to go to Nineveh, proclaiming its impending destruction. The people, including the king, repent, leading God to spare the city. Upset by God’s mercy, Jonah experiences God’s lesson in compassion through a plant that provides him shade and then dies.
Word of the Day: Awestruck
Definition: Filled with or revealing awe.
“The sailors were awestruck by the Lord’s great power.”
The pagan sailors, who didn’t know the One actual Creator, were amazed by God’s power. Jonah, chosen by God, was bitter and wanted to die.
Today’s readings contrast the limits of human actions with God’s limitless love and mercy. Despite the continual sin and partial obedience of Israel’s kings, God’s compassion endures, rooted in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His promises tempered His anger, showing that while human actions may be flawed and limited, God’s faithfulness remains steadfast.
Joash and Jehoahaz had opportunities to turn to God entirely, but their limited commitments led to partial victories and continued struggles. This serves as a reminder of the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. The story of Elisha and Joash emphasizes how limited actions can affect the extent of God’s blessings and victories in our lives.
Jonah and Uzziah’s stories highlight the consequences of pride and disobedience. Jonah resisted God’s call due to personal prejudice, while Uzziah’s pride led to his downfall. Both experienced God’s power in ways they didn’t desire. However, their stories remind us to be awestruck by God’s work and give Him glory.
These are the three choices we face today:
- To serve God, see Him at work, and give God glory.
- To know God can work but fight against Him.
- To serve God and then take the glory for ourselves.
Jonah was shocked by the whale, and Uzziah was amazed by his leprosy. They saw God’s power but not in the ways they wanted. A better choice is to join God in His work and give Him glory for His accomplishments.
Let’s cultivate deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions, recognize our human limitations, and lean into God’s limitless grace and mercy. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
June 21
Amos 1-6
Embracing God’s Sovereignty
Today, we dive into the book of Amos, a prophet called by God to deliver a message to the Northern Kingdom around 760-753 BC. Although Amos was from a village near Bethlehem in Judah, his prophetic ministry targeted the Northern Kingdom. Amos, whose name means “burden bearer,” was a shepherd and fig farmer before he became a prophet. His message to a materially prosperous Israel was one of judgment for their injustice towards the poor and their betrayal of God’s covenant.
Amos 1-3
In the opening chapters, Amos pronounces judgments on neighboring nations—Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, and Moab—condemning them for various transgressions like cruelty and betrayal. He then turns his attention to Judah and Israel, highlighting their rejection of God’s law and their numerous offenses, including oppression of the poor and idolatry. God’s chosen people, Israel, are mainly targeted, with Amos emphasizing their unique relationship with God and the impending punishment for their sins.
Amos 4-6
Israel is warned that their continued sin will lead to severe consequences. God recounts the plagues and disasters He has already sent as warnings, urging them to return to Him. Despite these warnings, Israel’s arrogance persists. Amos delivers a stark message: “Prepare to meet your God in judgment.” Yet, there is a call to repentance: “Come back to me and live! Don’t worship at the pagan altars; come back to the Lord and live.” God despises Israel’s arrogance and their false sense of security, warning of the sorrow that awaits them.
Word of the Day: Sovereign
Definition: Having supreme rank, power, or authority; supreme; preeminent; indisputable.
God’s sovereignty is His absolute right to do everything according to His good pleasure. It means that God is in all and overall.
Creative Sovereignty: God is the Lord of creation, guiding His creation toward a meaningful end. His creativity holds promise and purpose.
Moral Sovereignty: God’s authority is grounded in His moral nature. He is to be obeyed not simply because He is mighty but righteous. His judgments are based on His profound moral character.
Transcendent Sovereignty: God’s ways are beyond our complete comprehension. He works in ways that humans do not always understand.
Purposeful Sovereignty: God’s actions move towards a specific purpose, as seen in Amos. God’s sovereignty is purposeful and intentional.
The book of Amos highlights the limits of human actions and the limitless nature of God’s love and mercy. Despite the continual sin and partial obedience of Israel, God’s compassion endures, rooted in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His promises tempered His anger, showing that while human actions may be flawed and limited, God’s faithfulness remains steadfast.
The people of Israel were repeatedly warned, yet they ignored the prophets’ blunt messages. God’s sovereignty means He cannot let sin go on unpunished, but it also means He continually reaches out to His people, desiring their return to righteousness. God’s call to Amos, a humble shepherd and fig farmer, underscores that He uses ordinary people to accomplish His purposes.
- Recognize God’s Sovereignty: God controls all creation, and His plans are purposeful and good.
- Respond to God’s Call: Just as Amos was called from his ordinary life, be open to how God might use you to deliver His message.
- Return to God: No matter how far we stray, God’s invitation to return to Him stands. He desires our repentance and wholehearted devotion.
As we reflect on these passages, let’s cultivate a deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions. Recognize our human limitations and lean into God’s limitless grace and mercy. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
