“Woe to those who lie on beds of ivory and stretch themselves out on their couches, and eat lambs from the flock and calves from the midst of the stall, who sing idle songs to the sound of the harp and like David invent for themselves instruments of music, who drink wine in bowls and anoint themselves with the finest oils, but are not grieved over the ruin of Joseph! Therefore, they shall now be the first of those who go into exile, and the revelry of those who stretch themselves out shall pass away” (Amos 6:4-7).
This is a passage about which I figuratively say, the Lord says, ‘We’ll see about that!”
First, he describes the luxury of the northern kingdom: ivory beds, fresh lamb and beef, fine wine, and the best oils. Their focus is on enjoying the finer things in life rather than being concerned about the spiritual downfall (idolatry) of the northern kingdom. (King Ahab – Jezebel’s husband – was known for his large ivory bed.)
Second, he explains that these folks will be the first to be exiled because of their heart focus.
This passage is a good reminder of God’s priority for heart commitment to righteousness. I must keep this in mind daily because I can be tempted to love the finer things over a love for spiritual things. I don’t think fine things are wrong, in and of themselves. They are wrong when they capture our hearts.
Father, please help me shape my passions toward righteousness and not toward the world. Amen.