Amos is more wordy in his approach than Joel was yesterday, but you could still read this short book in one sitting without much trouble. The first two chapters deal with God's judgment against various nations, but then he turns his attention to the rebellious nature of the people of God. Chapter four shows us how God sought the attention of Israel through famine, drought, blight, pestilence, and warfare. Yet, the people would not turn back to God. He sent them the prophets, but they would not listen. There remains hope for them still when God proclaimed "Seek the Lord and live." But there was no turning, no repentance. So, we find a sentiment similar to what we will see in Isaiah. "I hate your feasts; I take no delight in your solemn assemblies. Take away from me the noise of your songs; to the melody of your harps, I will not listen." These words remind us that the mere act of worship is no replacement for a heart faithfully committed to the Lord. Thankfully, we who have been declared righteous through faith find ourselves accepted in the sight of God.