How can we ensure our actions align with God's expectations in Amos 3:10? The Problem Exposed in Amos 3:10 “ ‘For they know not how to do right,’ declares the LORD, ‘those who store up violence and destruction in their citadels.’ ” Why “Not Knowing How to Do Right” Happens • Complacency—living off previous spiritual victories instead of present obedience (cf. Deuteronomy 8:11–14). • Prosperity without gratitude—“store up” wealth and power while ignoring justice (cf. Jeremiah 5:28). • Calloused conscience—habitual sin dulls spiritual sensitivity (cf. Ephesians 4:18–19). • Distorted priorities—fortifying “citadels” instead of strengthening character (cf. Matthew 6:19–21). Steps to Align Our Actions with God’s Expectations 1. Know what is right by knowing God’s Word. – Psalm 119:11: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” 2. Examine motives, not just outcomes. – Proverbs 16:2: “All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the motives.” 3. Repent quickly when conviction comes. – 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” 4. Replace selfish accumulation with generous justice. – Micah 6:8: “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” 5. Cultivate accountability. – Hebrews 10:24: “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” 6. Depend on the Spirit’s power. – Galatians 5:16: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Practical Heart Checkpoints • Is my security rooted in possessions or in God’s promises? • Am I seeking personal advantage at the expense of others’ welfare? • Do my private habits match my public testimony? • Are justice and mercy regular, measurable parts of my lifestyle? • Would God call my choices “storing up violence” or “storing up treasure in heaven” (Matthew 6:20)? Scriptures That Reinforce These Principles • Isaiah 1:16–17—“Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, correct the oppressor.” • James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Luke 12:15—“Life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” • 2 Timothy 2:19—“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.” Putting It into Practice Today Start each day with Scripture, allowing God to define “right.” Audit your spending, speech, and schedule for justice and mercy. Invite trusted believers to speak truth into blind spots. Respond immediately when the Spirit exposes wrong motives. Keep eternity in view, remembering that obedience is always safer than any “citadel” we could build. |
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