Definition: Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Amos 8:11. It's a pretty intense and important passage about God’s plan for the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is telling us that He intends to cause a widespread period of silence – a lack of hearing – throughout the land. It’s not about physical hunger or thirst like a drought. It’s about a complete absence of listening for God’s word. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Amos 8:11 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD..." – This is a formal introduction. “Amos” was a prophet in ancient Israel, and this verse is part of a larger prophecy about the future. "Behold" means "look!" “Saith the Lord God…” means "God says." "...that I will send a famine in the land..." – This is the main point: God is going to cause a significant disruption and hardship. "...not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water..." – This part clarifies what kind of famine he’s talking about. It's not a shortage of food or water – that’s a normal situation. Instead, it’s a famine focused on hearing . "...but of hearing the words of the LORD:" – This is the crucial part! God wants us to listen to Him. It’s about understanding His message and being receptive to His guidance. What does this mean for us today? This verse speaks to a time when people might become complacent, resistant to God's truth, and unwilling to hear what He has to say. It's a call to be open to the Word of God – to read scripture, pray, and truly listen to His guidance in our lives. Why is this important? It’s often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of rejecting God’s message. It suggests that if we don't listen to God, we risk losing our way and becoming lost. It’s also a reminder that true spiritual growth comes from actively seeking and understanding His word. --- To help me explain it even better for you , could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand about this verse? (Are you curious about its context, or perhaps its meaning in a specific situation?)