Gold Nugget
Verse 21: “There are many plans in a man’s heart, nevertheless the LORD’s counsel—that will stand.”
Commentary
In the
book of Amos 7:7-8, the Lord uses a plumb line to make an illustration. What
would He use a plumb line to make a point for? To begin, let’s gather
what we know about a plumb line. Often referred to as a “plumb bob” in
construction, it is a simple device made of two parts - a string and a weight.
The string is suspended from a desired location with the weight tied to the
other end. This insures that the string is up and down without even one slight
degree angled to the left or right. The law of gravity guarantees that the line
will be perfectly straight. Of all the advancements in technology, the plumb
line is still used to build even the most modern and precise structure without
error. Of all the advancements we’ve made, we are all still bound by the law of
gravity. Having been in the construction industry most of my life, I have been
in situations where I have just “eye-balled” to see if something was plumb.
Although it might get me through the moment, I knew I would have to eventually
make sure it was actually plumb. Optical illusions are all around us. The plumb
bob has stood the test of time and is still applicable today.
God Himself makes
this illustration to Amos. He stands with the plumb line that is as accurate
and as sure as anything can or ever will be. He tells Amos that the people will
no longer “eye-ball” what is straight, true or right. They will use the
instrument of His laws as a plumb line. God knows that there are optical
illusions all around us today and the only way to measure what is right, true
and plumb, is to use His Word. In our society, there are many interpretations
of what is right and true. Everyone has their opinion and worse yet, we have
our own. None of us are immune to optical illusions. The world is full of
“eye-balled” perspectives. The only true way to ensure we are walking and
living in the truth is to measure ourselves by the plumb line of the Word of
God. Our own ways, plans or thoughts are like today’s “gold nugget”, “There
are many plans in a man’s heart, nevertheless the LORD’s counsel—that will
stand.” Knowing what God says about the condition of your life and the
situations you deal with as described in His Word will ensure your ability to
stand. Just as an ancient building constructed with a plumb line, you too will
endure the test of time.
Prayer
Lord, help me to remember that I cannot “eye-ball” my way through
this life. I need your sure, steady truth from your Word to tell me when I am
not plumb and out of line. When you do show me, help me to be humble enough to
allow the necessary adjustments to get me in line with your Word. Amen
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