Amos 8:11

Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord GOD, when I will send a famine on the land--not a famine of bread or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD.

Study Bible

Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord GOD
This phrase introduces a prophetic announcement, emphasizing the certainty and divine authority behind the message. The use of "Behold" serves as a call to attention, indicating the importance of what follows. The phrase "the days are coming" is often used in prophetic literature to signal future events that are part of God's sovereign plan. This is similar to other prophetic declarations found in Jeremiah 7:32 and Isaiah 39:6, where impending judgment or significant change is foretold. The title "Lord GOD" underscores the authority and sovereignty of God, reminding the audience of His ultimate control over history and events.

when I will send a famine on the land
This phrase indicates that the coming event is a direct act of God, not a natural occurrence. In the ancient Near East, famines were often seen as divine judgments, as seen in Genesis 41 with the famine in Egypt. The "land" refers to Israel, highlighting that this judgment is specifically targeted at God's chosen people. The concept of famine as a divine tool is consistent with the covenant curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28:23-24, where disobedience to God's commands results in agricultural and economic hardship.

not a famine of bread or a thirst for water
Here, the prophecy distinguishes the nature of the coming famine. Unlike typical famines that involve physical deprivation, this famine is metaphorical. Bread and water are basic necessities for physical survival, and their mention underscores the severity of the deprivation that will be experienced. This distinction sets the stage for understanding the deeper spiritual implications of the prophecy, as physical needs are often used in scripture to illustrate spiritual truths, as seen in Jesus' temptation in Matthew 4:4, where He quotes Deuteronomy 8:3 about living by every word from the mouth of God.

but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD
This phrase reveals the true nature of the famine: a spiritual deprivation. The "words of the LORD" refer to divine revelation, guidance, and instruction, which were delivered through prophets and the Law. The absence of God's word signifies a withdrawal of His presence and guidance, a severe judgment for a people who have repeatedly ignored His commands. This concept is echoed in 1 Samuel 3:1, where the word of the LORD was rare, indicating a period of spiritual barrenness. The famine of hearing God's word highlights the importance of spiritual nourishment and the dire consequences of its absence, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, the Word made flesh (John 1:14), who provides the living water and bread of life (John 4:10, John 6:35).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amos
A prophet from the southern kingdom of Judah, called by God to deliver messages to the northern kingdom of Israel. His prophecies often focused on social justice and divine judgment.

2. Israel
The northern kingdom, which was experiencing prosperity but also moral and spiritual decay. Amos directed his prophecies towards their injustices and idolatry.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign deity of Israel, who speaks through Amos to warn of impending judgment due to the people's disobedience and neglect of His word.

4. Famine
Typically understood as a severe shortage of food, but in this context, it symbolizes a lack of spiritual nourishment and guidance from God.

5. Hearing the Words of the LORD
Refers to the reception and understanding of God's messages, which were delivered through His prophets.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Hunger
Just as physical hunger drives us to seek food, spiritual hunger should drive us to seek God's word. We must prioritize spiritual nourishment in our lives.

Consequences of Neglect
Ignoring God's word leads to spiritual famine. We must be diligent in studying and applying Scripture to avoid spiritual drought.

Value of Prophetic Voice
The absence of God's word is a severe judgment. We should cherish and heed the teachings of Scripture and those who faithfully proclaim it.

Active Listening
Hearing God's word requires more than passive listening; it demands active engagement and obedience.

Preparation for Spiritual Famine
In times of spiritual abundance, we should store up God's word in our hearts to withstand future challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a spiritual famine challenge your current approach to Bible study and prayer?

2. In what ways can you ensure that you are actively "hearing" the words of the LORD in your daily life?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt spiritually dry. How did you seek to remedy that situation, and what role did Scripture play?

4. How can the church community help prevent a spiritual famine among its members?

5. What steps can you take to prepare for potential spiritual challenges, ensuring you remain rooted in God's word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 8:3
This verse emphasizes that man does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD, highlighting the importance of spiritual sustenance.

1 Samuel 3:1
Describes a time when the word of the LORD was rare, paralleling the spiritual famine Amos prophesies.

Psalm 74:9
Laments the absence of prophetic vision, similar to the famine of hearing God's words in Amos.

Matthew 4:4
Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 8:3, reinforcing the necessity of God's word for true life.

2 Timothy 4:3-4
Warns of a time when people will turn away from sound doctrine, akin to the spiritual famine Amos describes.