Sovereignty (of God)

God as A Waiter (or God as A Relief Pitcher) [Amos; Malachi; 2 Timothy 3:5; other topics - Commitment]

The generation just past crowded God to the boundaries of life, while the present generation is shoving Him over the edge.

Oh, we want Him around when it’s useful, but we don’t want Him intruding when it isn’t. We see Him like a waiter at a party, standing silently against the wall until needed. He is then beckoned with the hand, to come and serve or to clear the dishes.

Sometimes, we see Him like a relief pitcher in a major league bullpen, hidden from view until the team is in trouble … we then beckon him to come in and save the game for us.

"God is a Gentleman, if you ask Him to stay out of your government, your courts, your schools, your businesses, or your homes ... He will oblige you." [Ruth Graham Lotz, paraphrased]

[Paraphrase - Hubbard, David Allan; “Why Can’t I Worship God My Own Way?,” Amos: God Speaks to an Age Turned Sentimental; Themes from the Minor Prophets: A Bible Comm. for Laymen; Regal Books, 1980 p.37]

Restoration

No Greener Grass [Amos 9:11-15]

In marriage counseling it's imperative to show both parties that there is no grass on the other side of the hill any greener than the grass in their own front lawn.

The real problem is to remind them that marriage, like grass, must be watered in order to stay green; likewise that it must be mowed and trimmed regularly. In a similar way, weeds get in and must be pulled-out or eradicated. And couples must understand some grasses go dormant once in awhile.

Maintaining a marriage is much like yard care; when all is said and done, hard work pays off.

COMPLACENCY & PRIDE: The sin sisters!

"Woe to those who are at ease in Zion And to those who feel secure in the mountain of Samaria, The distinguished men of the foremost of nations, To whom the house of Israel comes."

Amos 6:1

The wicked sisters of complacency and pride are like the South American bola. It’s used to take down uncooperative horses and cattle, when thrown at their hind legs. It is also used against uncooperative men. The two leather tethers were tied at one end and held lead or stone balls at the other end.

When thrown correctly the two balls whirl around in opposite directions; upon hitting a target, they wrap themselves around the legs, tripping or immobilizing the animal. Heavier weights are used as a weapon. Thrown at the upper torso or the neck, the two balls deal a severe blow to the recipient … even rendering some unconscious.

Complacency and pride whirl around religious men like gossip and backbiting around the proverbial water cooler.

Christianity, Complacency,
Illustrations, Pride, Religion