Amos 6:14

"you who rejoice in a thing of nothing, who say, ‘Haven’t we taken for ourselves horns by our own strength?’"

Key Reflection

Amos 6:14 challenges the complacent and arrogant attitudes of those who, despite living in comfort, fail to recognize God's judgment. The people boast about their military might and prosperity, saying they have “taken for ourselves horns by our own strength.” In Amos' time, this would have referred to their fortified cities and military prowess, which they considered the source of their security and wealth. However, Amos warns that such self-reliance is hollow, as true strength comes from God alone, and his judgment will ultimately undermine all human pride.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

But -(For,) - it was a non-thing, a nonexistent thing, a phantom, whereat they rejoiced; “for behold I raise up a nation.” God is said to “raise up,” when, by His Providence or His grace, He calls forth those who had not been called before, for the office for which He designs them. Thus, He raised up judgesJudges 2:16-18, deliversJudges 3:9-15, prophets , NazaritesAmos 2:11, priests1 Samuel 2:35, kings2 Samuel 7:8, calling each separately to perform what He gave them in charge.

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