Amos 3:2

“’You only have I known among all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your wrongdoing.’”

When I grew up in the 1960’s and 70’s, whippings were pretty normal. I didn’t know any kids whose parents didn’t spank them. We all turned out pretty good, so I guess when it’s done correctly it’s okay. Now, don’t start writing me letters. This is simply my opinion based on my experience. My parents would have never spanked someone else’s child. That was reserved for family. I guess you could call them family whoopings.

The Lord is taking Israel to task because they were His children. Look what He says in this verse. “You only have I known…” He had cut covenant with Abraham. His seed were God’s children. So when they misbehaved, God punished them. Here in Amos, they are being told that punishment is coming. God is promising then a family whooping,

APPLICATION

Do you like whoopings? I sure don’t. I don’t want to be scolded or spanked. I want to live my life to please my Father. And when I mess up, He is quick to correct me. When I am sharp with my wife, His Spirit convicts me. When I talk disrespectfully the Lord reminds me whose I am. It’s like He’s asking me if I want a spanking. That gets my attention.

Even if you are smarting as a result of one of God’s spankings, remember how much He loves you, God is a just God, but He is also a merciful God. I really don’t believe God enjoys punishing us. He had rather extend mercy and grace. But He knows sometimes He needs to apply the board. Family whoopings.

I am thankful for a God that will not let me stray. Psalm 119:10 says, “I seek You with all of my heart. Do not let me stray from Your commands.” What a great reminder of our heart for the Lord.

Dear Father, I ask for You to help us manage the affairs of our lives so that we can free to others,