Hosea Chapter 7: Calling on God
Hosea Chapter 7: Calling on God
Woe to them for wandering away from me! Destruction awaits them for their sin against me. I wanted to rescue them, but they spoke lies about me.
They didn't cry out to me from their heart, but instead wailed on their beds, gathering for grain and new wine, rebelling against me.
◇ You can feel God's aching heart. The Israelites are so clearly on the wrong path, yet they continue walking it. If they would just take a moment to look back and admit their mistakes, asking God for help, He would save them from their path of destruction.
This chapter mentions three times that "no one is calling out" (verses 7, 10, 14). From the leaders to the common people, they aren't even thinking about God. Their only focus is on their power, wealth, and glory - their minds completely consumed.
The expression "stealing internally, plundering externally" perfectly illustrates their state. Blinded by greed, God doesn't even register in their consciousness. They're solely focused on filling their own bellies. They care only about their own prosperity - the fate of the nation or its people means nothing to them.
Seeking out Egypt, running to Assyria, playing diplomatic acrobats and thinking themselves clever - it's actually the most foolish approach. Who would protect a weak, wavering nation? These countries are more likely to devour each other. In a country where the king has been assassinated four times in 16 years, constantly deceiving and being deceived, who would offer protection? Will Egypt and Assyria really help?
They must turn back to God. They must cry out to Him wholeheartedly. What does turning to God and crying out to Him mean? Stopping the evil they've been doing. Ceasing the lies, greed, and injustice that have been defying God's will. And living in alignment with God's will. Living mercifully, honestly, and righteously.
Calling on God and returning to Him means fulfilling His will and coming back under His governance. This is what it means to truly be Israel.
♧ Oh good and wise God, help me rejoice and be thankful that living under Your rule is truly a blessed life. Help me examine my heart, words, and actions daily. Holy Spirit, guide me in truth. Amen.