Day 11: Farmer to Prophet

Week Two: God Uses the Simple

Written by Emily Gise
Day 11: Farmer to Prophet

September 24, 2024

Amos 7:14-15

"Then answered Amos, and said to Amaziah, I was no prophet, neither was I a prophet's son; but I was an herdman, and a gatherer of sycomore fruit: and the LORD took me as I followed the flock, and the LORD said unto me, Go, prophesy unto my people Israel."

Devotional
Welcome to The Turnaround’s 52 Days of Prayer!

 

Insight

Amos was an ordinary farmer, tending sheep and caring for sycamore-fig trees when God called him to become a prophet. He wasn’t from a lineage of prophets, nor did he seek a prophetic role; yet, God saw something in Amos that went beyond his everyday tasks. This story resonates deeply with me as I step into my new role of serving as a state representative, feeling God’s call to serve beyond my comfort zone and into a place of leadership and influence. 

At first, it was a whisper I couldn’t shake. I loved my job and was comfortable with where I was, but God kept nudging my heart, whispering His plans to me, my husband, and others around me. It felt like a heavenly group chat I couldn’t leave! God showed up in miraculous ways, making it clear that He had other plans—plans I couldn’t ignore. 

This calling reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their background or profession. Those who obey God’s call, even when it seems unexpected, are rewarded—not necessarily with worldly accolades, but with the assurance that we are walking in God’s will. Trust that God’s calling on your life can take you beyond what you could ever imagine, and in obedience, there is great reward. 

 God has gifted each of us uniquely. We may see ourselves as just teachers, parents, or employees, but God sees our potential far beyond the roles we play. Amos was a shepherd, a farmer—his life was simple. Yet, God called him out of the fields to speak truth to a nation! It wasn’t Amos’s position or pedigree that qualified him; it was his willingness to listen and obey God’s voice. And remember, even Moses tried to use the “I’m not good at public speaking” excuse—and we all know how that turned out! God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called!

 

Turnaround Question

 Take a moment to reflect on your own life. Is there a nudge or a whisper that you’ve been hearing? This week, ask God to show you how He wants to use your unique gifts. Take one bold step toward that calling, no matter how small it seems. 

 

Prayer

 Heavenly Father, thank you for seeing beyond our current roles and calling us into Your greater purpose. Help us to trust in Your plans, even when they take us out of our comfort zones. Give us the courage to step forward in faith, knowing that You equip those You call. May we, like Amos, listen, obey, and find joy in serving You wherever You lead us. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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