June 28 – Reading 179

june 28 – Reading 179

by Albert Rosado | June 28

“A CALL TO RETURN TO GOD”
(Amos 3:1 – 5:27)

“Seek the Lord and live.” — Amos 5:6a

Simple Truth:
God doesn’t want to punish—He wants His people to turn back to Him and live.

In Amos 3–5, the prophet Amos shares God’s sorrow over Israel’s sin. The people had become proud, dishonest, and full of injustice. They still went to worship, but their hearts were far from God. They were acting religious but living in ways that hurt others and dishonored the Lord.

God sent Amos to give a warning—not to destroy, but to call them back. In Amos 5:1, Amos sings a sad song (a lament) over Israel, saying she has fallen and will not rise unless she returns to God. Over and over, God says through Amos, “Seek Me and live.” That was His desire—not judgment, but life.

God still calls us today: “Come back to Me.” When we put other things before Him or ignore His Word, He doesn’t give up on us. Instead, He invites us to return. And through Jesus, we have that chance. Jesus took our punishment so we could be forgiven and live in God’s love.

Reflections:

1. God sees the heart, not just actions. Israel looked spiritual, but their hearts were full of pride and sin.
2. God warns because He loves. He sends voices like Amos to call us back—not to shame us, but to save us.
3. Jesus is our way back. He is the One who makes it possible for us to return and live in God’s grace.

Application:
Is there something in your life that has taken God’s place—like pride, selfishness, or ignoring His Word? Don’t wait. Hear God’s call through Amos: “Seek the Lord and live.” Spend time in prayer and ask God to show you where you need to come back to Him.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for loving me enough to call me back when I go astray. I don’t want to just go through the motions—I want to truly seek You with my heart. Thank You for Jesus, who made a way for me to return to You. Help me to live in Your truth and reflect Your love every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.