When Overwhelmed, We Need Things Smoothed Over

O. T. #2108  "When Overwhelmed, We Need Things Smoothed Over "

Jan. 14, 2022

Amos 3-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Have you been overwhelmed lately? I certainly have. Someone hacked into our computer at our shop, held it for ransom, and since we would not pay, all information was erased. We were able to begin again. Therefore, we have to figure out things for last month, enter recent information, and practically start over. Talk about a downer on Christmas Eve.

But God is good, and each day we are renewing it, for God's grace renews us daily. He is our refuge and strength. Instead of being overwhelmed with such a huge task, we are being renewed daily with Jesus being our mercy and refuge. We are taking it one step at a time. We are still in the land of the living. Praise Jesus!

When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then Thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me. (Psalm 142:3)

I cried unto Thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living. (verse 5)

In the Hebrew language, overwhelmed means to shroud, clothe; hence (from the idea of darkness) to languish; cover (over); fail; faint; feebler.

Portion refers to smoothness; allotment; part; inheritance.

When a challenge seems to cover you with darkness, remember to cry out to Jesus. He is our refuge, strength of our heart, help in times of trouble. It is a time to praise the Lord, keep believing He will fix it for us, and renew our faith. Keep walking in faith, lift your head, it ain't over yet. Jesus is our inheritance and smoothness in the land of the living. Let Him smooth the path ahead, smooth out the rough parts, smooth things over so we are not overwhelmed.

LET IT GROW

The prophet Amos is using 7 questions in this chapter to announce the judgment of God upon Israel, to tie together God's message and the upcoming events:

1. Can two walk together, except they be agreed?(verse 3) Two must be in agreement(cause), if they are going to walk together (effect).

So it is with us and our God-we must be in agreement with Him. We must go over to His side and agree with Him. We agree that we are a sinner in need of a Savior; we need His forgiveness; we will turn away from our sinful way and walk His way.

God is carrying out His purposes in the world and in our life. We must get aboard and ride in His chariot, not get under its wheels. The we will ride triumphantly with Him along this road of faith.

God called this shepherd and farmer out to be His prophet, warning His people what was to come if they did not repent of their idolatry. God called, equipped, and used this man for His purposes. As Amos walked with God in communion, so must we if we are to accomplish His will for our life.

Jesus said, Apart from Me you can do nothing. (John 15:5 NIV)

Are we listening to Jesus or carrying out our own agenda?

LET IT GO

Seek God's will and do it, not ours.

Praise Jesus as we walk with Him in harmony.

Watch God work for us, smoothing things out.

Let Him overwhelm us, not darkness.