Amos 5:11 (ESV Strong's)
Therefore because you trample on the poor
and you exact taxes of grain from him,
you have built houses of hewn stone,
but you shall not dwell in them;
you have planted pleasant vineyards,
but you shall not drink their wine.
Subject: Giving to others
Before anything is written concerning the above passage, we should read another passage and compare the two.
Psalms 112:5-9 (ESV Strong's)
It is well with the man who deals generously and lends;
who conducts his affairs with justice.
For the righteous will never be moved;
he will be remembered forever.
He is not afraid of bad news;
his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.
His heart is steady; he will not be afraid,
until he looks in triumph on his adversaries.
He has distributed freely; he has given to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever;
his horn is exalted in honor.
Amos was writing to Israel, who had become very selfish and wicked. The leadership and wealthy, in particular, had become self-centers and self-serving. When that happens we are less interested in helping the poor and those in need. God's heart is a heart of giving. God wants us to reflect that spirit. When we hold onto things for ourselves we are not Godly. God will judge those who oppress the poor and are unjust in their dealings with mankind. We might not see His Justice, but that does not limit the truth that He will judge, or is judging. God blesses those who give. That is the contrast to see.
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