Hosea 5-9
In chapter 5 of Hosea, we see judgement pronounced over Israel.
“Listen to this, O priests! Listen, O house of Israel, and give ear, O house of the king! For the judgment is against you; for you have been a snare at Mizpah, and a net spread on Tabor.”
(Hosea 5:1, REV)
Later in verse 14, Yahweh says:
“I myself will tear them in pieces and go away. I will carry them off, and there will be no one to rescue them.” (Hosea 5:14, REV)
Things are starting to look bleak for Israel. Yet some begin to consider returning to Yahweh:
“Come and let’s return to Yahweh; for he has torn us to pieces, but he will heal us; he has injured us, but he will bind up our wounds.” (Hosea 6:1, REV)
But in verse 4, Yahweh reveals a deeper issue – Israel is not loyal to its covenants. He compares them to a morning cloud or dew that vanishes early. Yahweh knows they won’t truly turn back, but will continue down a path of unrighteousness:
“The pride of Israel testifies to his face, yet they do not return to Yahweh their God, nor have they sought him for all this.” (Hosea 7:10, REV)
In chapter 8, Yahweh continues to speak on the corrupt mindset of Israel and the many reasons for their separation from Him. Midway through the chapter, we see what happens to Israel.
“Israel is swallowed up. Now they are among the nations like a vessel that nobody wants. For they have gone up to Assyria, like a wild donkey wandering alone. Ephraim has hired herself out to lovers.” (Hosea 8:8–9, REV)
Back in chapter 5, verse 4, it says that Israel cannot return to God because of their deeds. That verse reminds me how important it is to change our actions when we turn to God. We can’t claim to be pure in mind and soul while continuing in sin and partaking in things that bring us further from God.
Since working in the construction industry and expanding my social circle beyond the church, I’ve noticed something. When I talk to people about faith and religion, many say they follow Christ but in the same breath, they contradict that by showing allegiance to themselves. My prayer for them is that they would not follow the path that Israel took, but recognize this hypocrisy and take steps to correct it. If they are sincere, they will allow God to begin to move in their lives or maybe even discover who God truly is for the first time.
-Bridger Grable
Reflection Questions
- How would you describe Israel’s problem in Hosea’s day?
- Where have you seen similar problems?
- In your own life when has your love evaporated quickly, like the morning dew? How are you doing right now? Are your deeds taking you closer to God or further from Him? What might Hosea (speaking for God) say about your heart?
Seek Grow Love 