Amos 5:8 Seek him that makes the seven stars and Orion, and turns the shadow of death into the morning, and makes the day dark with night… I. EVERY SORROW IS A SHADOW OF DEATH. Our deepest sorrows are not always to be measured by events themselves, but by thoughts and emotions which lie at the heart of them. When we see and feel how griefs and tribulations are used by God, for softening, purifying, and elevating character, we see even here how the shadows of death are turned into the morning. II. NATIONAL OR PERSONAL JUDGMENT IS THE SHADOW OF DEATH. Perhaps this is the direct reference of these words. Israel may live again. III. DECLINING STRENGTH IS A SHADOW OF DEATH. There comes the time when irremediable and irresistible disease does its steady work. IV. UNBELIEF IS A SHADOW OF DEATH. Unbelief regarded as distrust of God as a Father and Redeemer; and distrust of ourselves as destined for the glorious immortality opened to us, and prepared for us by the death and resurrection of our blessed Lord. V. BEREAVEMENT IS THE SHADOW OF DEATH. We realise nothing till it creates vacancy with us. Some losses we can bear. After bereavement there gradually comes a morning of humble submission and rest in God. (W. M. Statham.) Parallel Verses KJV: Seek him that maketh the seven stars and Orion, and turneth the shadow of death into the morning, and maketh the day dark with night: that calleth for the waters of the sea, and poureth them out upon the face of the earth: The LORD is his name: |
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