7/10/2012
Hosea 12
-God’s anger is reported to the ones that are in rebellion
against Him and His ways. Ephraim feeds on the wind (emptiness). The empty
things they pursue are lies (deceptions) and violence, covenants with Assyria,
and trade with Egypt (Hosea 12:1). These are worldly nations who do not worship
the One-True Living God. They are wind and will provide no eternal hope for the
stability of God’s people. Therefore, the LORD is angry at their unfaithfulness
and wandering off from the straight course their forefathers set for them. Even
Judah has brought on the LORD’s disfavor and will be punished as Jacob was. The
prophet Hosea through the LORD’s Word offers from history the antidote for
recovering the LORD’s favor. Weep, seek His favor to the point of wrestling
with Him, hear from Him at all costs (Hosea 12:4), and return to Him observing
kindness and justice and waiting for Him continually (Hosea 12:6).
*Application* God always provides a way out and instructions for us to come
back to Him even when we’ve failed miserably. If you are in the spot where you
have chased after emptiness and deception, hear the Word of the LORD and return
to Him today seeking with all your heart His favor and kindness. He will in no
way cast you out and away (John 6:37).
-Ephraim’s attitude is that they are rich and in no need of
the LORD. They have found wealth for themselves by themselves (Hosea 12:8). God
lets them know He is still in control and can bless or take away that blessing
as He wills and desires. He speaks through His prophets through visions and
parables and will make Ephraim revert back to where they live in tents as in
the days of their desert wanderings if their bloodguiltiness and reproach
remain on them, which will happen because of their insolent pride (Hosea
12:14). *Application* Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit goes
before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). Make sure you stay humble before the LORD and
realize all His blessings are from Him who deserves all the glory. He will
share His majesty with no one else including you. In other words, if you want
His eternal favor you must play by His rules. But, O what rewards we receive
when we come into conformity with His design and plan for our lives. He
indwells us when we die to ourselves and make Him actual LORD of our lives
through Jesus Christ. It is not our natural pull, but in the end it yields, by
far, the best results. Trust in Him!
Verse to Memorize:
Hosea 12:6
No comments:
Post a Comment