Amos 5—6: Seek the Lord and Live!

For more context before you begin studying, read this introduction to the book of Amos.

Success, wealth, power, prestige—these are eagerly sought by many today. People are willing to sacrifice their marriages, their families and even their health to obtain these goals. But in the end most discover that the rewards were not worth the cost. How tragic! In chapters 5 and 6 Amos tells us how to avoid this tragedy in our lives—"Seek the Lord and live!"

Warming Up to God

Why do you think people are willing to sacrifice so much to obtain the things mentioned above? To what extent are you looking for these things?

Read Amos 5—6

Discovering the Word

• A lament (5:1) was a song or poem mourning someone's death. How does Amos portray the death of Israel (5:2)?
• What has Israel done to deserve the Lord's judgment (5:7, 10, 11, 12)?
• The Lord pleads with Israel in verses 4, 6, 14 and 15. In this context, what would it mean for Israel to seek the Lord?
• How were the Israelites mistaken about the day of the Lord (5:18-20)?
• How does Amos portray the Israelites in 6:1-6?
• How does the Lord promise to repay those who are complacent and proud (6:7-14)?

Applying the Word

• In their complacency and security, Israel failed to grieve over the ruin of their nation (5:6). What should grieve you today about your personal life?
• What grieves you about your church and your nation?

Responding in Prayer

Take time to pray about those things that cause you to grieve. Ask the Lord to help you seek his will in these areas.