Read today’s texts first: Amos 7-9; Psalms 104; Titus 2
A crooked foundation will inevitably lead to collapse.
The book of Amos is best known for the image of the plumb line (7:7,8). As God revealed the possible consequences of Israel’s sin, this soft-hearted shepherd-turned-prophet pleads with Him to relent. It is strikingly similar to Scrooge pleading with the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come: Are these the shadows of the things that will be, or are they shadows of things that may be, only? God, in response to the pleadings of Amos, shows him the plumb line, as if to say, things are off kilter, My standard has been ignored, a crooked foundation will inevitably lead to collapse. It is unavoidable if there is no change!
Paul holds up a similar standard for Titus: In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned (2:7,8). So often we dismiss sin with the rationalization: “hey, we’re only human, we’re sinners - what did you expect?” Well God expects us to follow His commands. In fact, His Spirit is living inside of us to help us do just that. Notice how often he uses the word “self-control” (vs. 2,5,6,12)!
Contrary to the changing values of our world, there is an unchanging standard known as God’s Word. No matter how you dress it up with political “correctness” (eg. pro choice, gay pride, right to die), sin is sin and a crooked foundation will collapse. It is inevitable.
“Lord, while Your salvation is a gift I could not earn, there is still an expectation to work out your salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12). Thank You for the gift of Your Spirit who works with me every day to keep my life plumb to the standards of Your unchanging Word!”
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