Verse 1 reoccurs several times in Hosea's book, and through Israel's history. God lavishly blessed Israel. Unfortunately, this blinded them. They turned to evil and idols. Read v. 1 again (NLT/Message). Mounting prosperity doesn't always make people godlier. Our hearts can still deceive us (Jeremiah 17:9). Consider the multiple consequences that follow (vs 2-8).
Rather than depend on God, Israel trusted their leaders, alliances, strategies and battle skills (vs 3-4, 13). But all these failed. They only reaped hopelessness, fear, lawsuits, thorns and thistles, mourning, shame/disgrace, deception, devastation/destruction, wars, bondage, and ultimately exile. They planted wickedness and reaped evil (v. 13). Their sin had cure, but fell and remained there (v. 9).
However, God is gracious. In his anger, He still offers hope, inviting people to repentance. Read v. 12 from at least two versions. Only God adequately and permanently solves the sin problem through Jesus' death and resurrection. What necessary changes must we make (breaking up fallow ground)? Which area(s) of your life must be turned around so you can seek God and live more victoriously?
How do you handle the blessings of God in your life? When riches increase do you put your trust in it?
I come before You, dear Lord, for the solution to my sin problem. Grant me a tender heart that is open to Your word.
©Scripture Union Nigeria
REMAIN BLESSED!
