Reordering Our Priorities: A Life-Changing Lesson from Amos
Are you tired of feeling like you’re doing everything right in your Christian life but still feeling distant from God?
If that sounds like you, then you are not alone. Many believers wrestle with this exact frustration.
In fact, the people of Israel in the time of the prophet Amos struggled with the same thing. They followed religious traditions. They gave offerings. They worshiped regularly. Still, God sent Amos to warn them.
Why?
Because, despite their outward religion, their hearts were far from what mattered most to God.
Today, we’ll unpack this powerful story from Amos. You’ll discover why God cared less about sacrifices and more about compassion, justice, and sincere love. More importantly, you’ll learn how to reorder your own priorities to reflect God’s heart.
Let’s dive in.
The Painful Truth About Israel’s Worship
At first glance, Israel seemed like the model nation. They followed rituals. They sacrificed diligently. They observed feasts and holy days.
However, beneath it all, something was terribly wrong.
They ignored the poor. They turned their backs on injustice. They chased after false gods.
In Amos 5:21-24, God makes a shocking statement. He says He despises their religious gatherings. He rejects their offerings. Instead, He calls for justice to roll like a river and righteousness like a flowing stream.
This wasn’t just about their behavior, it was about their hearts.
Where We Often Go Wrong Today
Now, before we judge Israel too quickly, we must ask ourselves some hard questions.
How often do we fall into the same trap?
We attend church every Sunday. We read our Bibles. We pray before meals. And yet, we may still ignore those who need help the most.
Sometimes, we prioritize personal spirituality so much that we forget to serve others.
James 1:27 gives us a clear reminder:
“Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained from the world.”
This verse reminds us that real faith is both personal and practical.
Faith That Lives and Breathes
Faith is not just believing; it’s living out that belief.
James 2:26 puts it plainly: “Faith without works is dead.”
Israel had the right motions but the wrong motivations. God wanted them and us to combine worship with action.
We must remember that serving others is not optional. It’s essential.
How to Reorder Your Priorities
Now that we’ve seen the warning, how can we apply it?
Here are three simple but powerful ways to reorder your priorities today:
1. Examine Your Heart
Ask yourself honestly:
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Am I only focused on my personal relationship with God?
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Have I ignored opportunities to serve others?
2. Start Small in Service
You don’t have to change everything overnight.
Start by serving where you are:
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Help at your church’s outreach program.
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Donate to a local shelter.
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Visit someone who feels forgotten.
3. Stay Consistent
Serving once is good. Serving consistently is better.
Make serving part of your weekly or monthly routine.
When you do, you’ll see how God changes both your heart and your community.
Reflection and Action Step
Before you go, take a moment to reflect.
Ask yourself:
➡️ What matters most to me right now, personal growth or serving others?
➡️ Where is God calling me to act today?
Here’s a quick poll to help you reflect:
Poll:
Where do you struggle most with your priorities?
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🕊️ Spending too much time on personal faith but not enough serving
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🙏 Doing a lot of service but neglecting personal devotion
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🤝 Trying to balance both, but feeling overwhelmed
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🌱 Unsure where to even start
Closing Thoughts
In closing, the Book of Amos reminds us that God desires more than just outward religion. He seeks hearts that beat with His love, hearts that pursue justice, mercy, and compassion.
Today, you have a chance to reorder your priorities. You can choose to live a faith that works, one that loves God deeply and serves others faithfully.
Don’t wait. Begin now.
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