Definition: Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel: [and] because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God, O Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Amos 4:12. It's a really important and somewhat serious message about the future of Israel. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Message: This verse is essentially saying that God is going to take action against Israel – specifically, it means he will punish them for their sins. But it’s not just a general punishment; it’s a call to prepare for it. Let's unpack the parts: “Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel:” - This is a command from God. He’s setting himself in a position to act. “Thus” means clearly and deliberately. “[and] because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God:” – This is the key part. He's telling them why he’s going to do this. “Because I will do this unto thee” - He understands they are breaking his laws and disobeying him. “Prepare to meet thy God” - This means, he wants them to recognize that it's a time of judgment. They need to be ready for what’s coming. In simpler terms: God is going to punish Israel for their sins. But He’s also giving them a chance to prepare themselves and show repentance – to turn away from their wrongdoings before they face the consequences. Overall Meaning & Context: Amos was a prophet who warned about Israel's rebellion and idolatry (worshiping other gods). This verse is a powerful warning, emphasizing God’s justice and the need for change. It's a call to repentance and a reminder that God’s judgment will come if they don’t respond to His word. It’s important to note: This verse isn't about immediate punishment; it’s about a future event that will be revealed. It’s a prophecy of judgment, but also a call for them to change their ways. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Connect it to a specific event or story from the Bible?