7/11/2012
Hosea 13
-Ephraim for the last time in the book is denounced for all
its pride in forgetting and turning away from their living God. They exalted
themselves and followed after false gods sinning more and more (Hosea 13:1-2).
What they became were clouds without rain, dew in the morning that evaporated,
chaff blown away by the wind being of no use, and smoke from a chimney that was
there but then gone (Hosea 13:3). In other words, their usefulness for the
Kingdom was temporary and fleeting because of their unfaithfulness to the LORD.
His patience with them was nearly over. He had cared for them in the most
desperate times in the wilderness and had expectations clearly laid out for
their conduct, but when they found their pasture, they became satisfied and
proud (Hosea 13:4-6). Therefore, they forgot their God and went their own way
(Hosea 13:6b). It is to their destruction that they go against God and His help
(Hosea 13:9). Whereas He wanted to be their Savior, they turned to other gods
and kings for protection and safety and would find that there is no salvation
apart from the living LORD. His compassion will be hidden from them (Hosea
13:14). Though it will seem for a short while Ephraim is prospering, his
fountain and spring will dry up and his treasury of every precious article will
be plundered (Hosea 13:15). They along with Samaria will fall by the sword with
their little ones dashed to pieces and the pregnant women ripped open (Hosea
13:16). *Application* Rebellion against God brings disaster in the long run. It
may seem for a while that you are getting away with sin and forgetting about
the LORD, but this is simply His patience with you. God gives us every
opportunity to turn back to Him and receive His grace, but there will come a
time when He has had enough and will bring upon you what you deserve for
neglecting His mercy and kindness. None other has the power to save and God
reaches out to us even in our times of prosperity to let us know that our
possessions and false hopes will not deliver eternal security. Don’t let
yourself trust in temporary solutions. Don’t be satisfied and proud forgetting
your Maker. In the end you will definitely need Him. Call upon Jesus!
Verse to Memorize:
Hosea 13:6
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