What is Our Focus?

O. T. #2138

Feb. 28, 2022  "What is Our Focus?"

Amos 9-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Previously, John told us to not love the world nor the things in it. (1 John 2:15)

So many consider worldliness to be limited to external behavior, places we go, activities we are involved in, and people whom we associate, things we have. It is also internal because worldliness begins in the heart. 

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (1 John 2:16)

Amos tells us of the 3 attitudes that characterize worldliness:

1. The lust of the flesh; This can involve eating becoming gluttony, and sex in marriage vs. immoral sex fulfilling the desires of the flesh.

Lust refers to desire; longing (for what is forbidden); flesh is the body [as opposed to the soul (or spirit)], human nature (with its frailties).

2. The lust of the eyes; It can involve accumulating things, bowing to the god of materialism. What we see, we desire, we get, even if the Bible is opposed to such things in the Christian walk of life.

3. The pride of life in lifestyle. This is an obsession with status or importance.

Satan tempted Eve in these areas. (Genesis 3:6) He also tempted Jesus in the wilderness, as his three areas of attack. (Matthew 4:1-11)

Eve submitted to those temptations, yet Jesus did not. It is only through Jesus that we can do so.

Let's strive to avoid sinful pleasures of the world, attitudes of worldliness in our heart and words. God values self-control, a spirit of generosity, and a humble service. Do we reflect those values in our actions?

Our flesh never gets enough of whatever it is desiring. It is up to us to remain committed to Jesus and living His ways.

[Resource: Life Application Study Bible]

 

LET IT GROW

As we look at the last few verses written by the prophet Amos, we find encouragement for Israel as it is restored in the future:

1. The Davidic dynasty restored (verse 11)
2. Israel will be supreme over the nations (verse 12)
3. The nations will be converted (verse 12b)
4. The land will experience unparalleled productivity (verse 13)
5. Its devastated cities will be rebuilt (verse 14)
6. Israel will be permanently established in its own land and will never go into captivity again (verse 15)

[Resource: Liberty Bible Commentary]

In spite of His judgment, God will not forget His beloved people. Jesus will sit on the throne in the millennial reign. There will be abundance, restoration, peace, and prosperity according to His agenda. Israelis will have a permanent residence while this earth exists. Then a new heaven and new earth will be for all believers in Jesus as Savior. Do you believe in Him today?

LET IT GO

Let others see Jesus in me.

Keep my eyes, heart, and desires focused on Jesus.

Please give faith to believe in You, Jesus, as their Savior for all who read this.

Have mercy on the souls of us sinners.

To Jesus be the glory and honor forever!