Fat Cow? Wow!

I do not imagine that any woman of any era would  appreciate being called a "fat cow," but that's exactly what the prophet Amos called the indulgent women of Israel as he spoke for God within the first five chapters of the book named after him.

The pages of these scripture passages paint a portrait of a people who reeked with the odor of ungodly behavior, and this herdsman turned prophet, Mr. Amos, spoke clearly (and bluntly) in an attempt to warn them to wake up before it was too late.

So what were the transgressions of these fat cows?  They oppressed the poor and crushed the needy--either directly, or maybe scarier--indirectly.  Their incessant whining and pining for more "stuff" apparently drove their husbands to commit great injustices in order to satisfy them, and God was angry.

I ask myself, am I guilty of the same?  And if I'm honest, sometimes, sadly, I have been.

My husband and I recently discussed the importance of genuine contentment  when there are wants that remain. We asked ourselves: what is pleasing and honoring to God with respect to our possessions? Should establishing a "this much is enough" plan be the goal of the committed Christ follower? How much could we give away if we lived with total satisfaction in His goodness and provision of our legitimate needs?

I have seen this in action, I am guessing you have, too. I'm privileged to know people who have amassed vast earthly wealth, yet they live simply and give generously, quietly, humbly.  What a beautiful example of faith in action they are to me. And what peace, joy, and godliness seems to define their lives.

Everything that Amos prophesied regarding the judgments awaiting those who ignored his warnings happened, some of it in as little as thirty years.  Merciful God gave them plenty of time to repent, but they didn't.

Today, I think the cow bell's alarm is sounding loud and clear--but will we listen?  Am I listening?  I hope I am not just listening but learning and heeding--because I never--EVER--want to be a fat cow in God's eyes.

Father, help me appreciate "enough" and be faithful to share the extra.  Please help Your economy be mine--and vice versa, in Jesus' Name, amen.