“For behold, He who forms mountains, And creates the wind, Who declares to man what his thought is, And makes the morning darkness, Who treads the high places of the earth – The Lord God of hosts is His name.” Amos 4:13

A glorious sunset sky reminds me of the power of our God!

Amos was one of the minor prophets. He was an older contemporary of Hosea and Isaiah and preached repentance to the people of Israel around the time of Jeroboam II (an evil king in the eyes of the Lord).

The first part of this chapter is pretty harsh. Amos is calling Israel out; he points out that the Lord has chastened them with drought, with famine, with wars, with plagues. God continually calls them back, but they have not repented of their idolatry, they have not “returned” to their God.

However, this last verse in the chapter stands out. It stands as a reminder to Israel of what an awesome and powerful God they have (and should be serving!). Amos hopes to call them back to their Lord God, the creator of all. This last verse is also written in present tense, God is, not God was. God is still creator, still forms mountains, creates the wind, knows the thoughts of men and women, makes the morning dark and treads the high places of the earth. Our powerful God is here and now.

The Power of Our God

He sets the stars and determines their perfect place.

He puts the planets on their paths in darkest space.

He moves the sun and earth through every season.

He creates image bearers, who can think and reason.

He loves us unwaveringly and beckons us to Him.

He loves us still, through our disobedience and sin.

He gives up His Son and offers us mercy and grace.

He guides our way as we strive to finish well, life’s race.

This week let’s look for all the ways that God’s magnificent power is displayed for us to see. A beautiful sunrise to help us get up and start the day, divine protection when it seems unlikely, a healing of spirit or body against the odds, or peace for our souls when troubles overwhelm. Let’s thank God for His awesome power in our present lives. God is still our powerful God of the here and now!

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me this week as we seek and recognize God’s mighty power.