Amos 7:6
The Lord repented for this. This also shall not bee, saith the Lord God. Amos 7:6 (KJV)
The book of Amos belongs to the Minor Prophets and records the ministry of Amos, a shepherd and fig farmer called by God to prophesy to the northern kingdom of Israel during the reign of Jeroboam II. The text contains a series of prophetic messages against Israel and the surrounding nations, denouncing sin and calling people to repentance.
In the preceding verses Amos receives vivid visions of judgment. Amos 7:1‑3 describes a swarm of locusts devouring the crops of Israel, and verses 4‑5 present a consuming fire that would destroy the land. These images portray the imminent judgment that Israel deserves because of its sins.
Amos intercedes on behalf of his nation. In Amos 7:6 he pleads, “O Lord GOD, cease, I beseech thee: by whom shall Jacob stand? for he is small.” The phrase “The Lord repented for this” can also be rendered “The Lord relented concerning this,” indicating that Amos’ prayer moves God to consider mercy.
God’s response is recorded in the same verse: “This also shall not be, saith the Lord GOD.”
The Lord relents from sending the specific judgment of the consuming fire, showing mercy to Israel in response to the faithful servant’s intercession. The relenting, however, applies only to these particular judgments; later passages such as Amos 7:17 reveal that God still intends to punish Israel for its persistent rebellion.
The passage teaches several timeless lessons. First, the power of intercession is evident—prayer can stand in the gap and influence divine action. Second, God’s mercy and willingness to relent demonstrate His gracious character toward those who turn to Him, even when judgment is deserved. Third, the episode affirms God’s sovereignty: while He may respond to sincere prayers, His ultimate purposes and plans remain steadfast and will be fulfilled.
Overall, Amos 7:6 illustrates how God’s compassion can temper judgment without nullifying His righteous standards. It encourages believers to pray boldly for others, trusting that a holy God hears intercession and can extend mercy while still upholding His holy will.
