‏ Amos 2

* Judgments against Moab and Judah. (1-8) The ingratitude and

ruin of Israel. (9-16)

1-8 The evil passions of the heart break out in various forms;

but the Lord looks to our motives, as well as our conduct. Those

that deal cruelly, shall be cruelly dealt with. Other nations

were reckoned with for injuries done to men; Judah is reckoned

with for dishonour done to God. Judah despised the law of the

Lord; and he justly gave them up to strong delusion; nor was it

any excuse for their sin, that they were the lies, the idols,

after which their fathers walked. The worst abominations and

most grievous oppressions have been committed by some of the

professed worshippers of the Lord. Such conduct leads many to

unbelief and vile idolatry. 9-16 We need often to be reminded of the mercies we have

received; which add much to the evil of the sins we have

committed. They had helps for their souls, which taught them how

to make good use of their earthly enjoyments, and were therefore

more valuable. Faithful ministers are great blessings to any

people; but it is God that raises them up to be so. Sinners' own

consciences will witness that he has not been wanting to them in

the means of grace. They did what they could to lead believers

aside. Satan and his agents are busy to corrupt the minds of

young people who look heavenward; they overcome many by drawing

them to the love of mirth and pleasure, and into drinking

company. Multitudes of young men who bade fair as professors of

religion, have erred through strong drink, and have been undone

for ever. The Lord complains of sin, especially the sins of his

professing people, as a burden to him. And though his

long-suffering be tired, his power is not, and so the sinner

will find to his cost. When men reject God's word, adding

obstinacy to sin, and this becomes the general character of a

people, they will be given up to misery, notwithstanding all

their boasted power and resources. May we then humble ourselves

before the Lord, for all our ingratitude and unfaithfulness.