Amos 4:9

"So two or three cities staggered to one city to drink water, and were not satisfied; yet you haven’t returned to me,” says the LORD."

Key Reflection

In Amos 4:9, the Lord uses a vivid image of several small cities struggling to find enough water in one larger city, only to be left unsatisfied. This metaphor highlights the dire conditions faced by Israelite communities due to divine judgment. The cultural context underscores the scarcity and importance of water; in ancient times, access to water sources was crucial for survival. By sending such plagues, the Lord demonstrates His power over their resources, yet the people remain unresponsive to Him, indicating a lack of repentance or acknowledgment of His sovereignty.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

I have smitten you with blasting -Literally, “an exceeding scorching,” such as the hot east wind produced, and “an exceeding mildew,” a blight, in which the ears turn untimely a pale yellow, and have no grain. Both words are doubly intensive. They stand together in the prophecy of MosesDeuteronomy 28:22, among the other scourges of disobedience; and the mention of these would awaken, in those who would hear, the memory of a long train of other warnings and other judgments. When your gardens ... increased -Better, as English margin.

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