I continue my study of Hosea, and my focus this morning is Hosea 5:1-15, where God prophecies exile for the northern kingdom Israel (referred to as Ephraim) to Assyria. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: V2: God shares His description of Israel as "revolters" and how "He will discipline" them. V3: We are reminded that God is omniscient (all knowing) and omnipresent (everywhere) and we cannot hide our sin from Him nor can we hide from Him - God knows all. V15: God responds and returns to those who truly repent (not a half hearted effort) and "earnestly seek" Him - see also Jeremiah 29:13 and Hebrews 11:6.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv4-5: Israel's shame traps them and prevents them from repentance. Once again the sin (crime) is not knowing the Lord. They attempt to seek the Lord - with a half-hearted attempt and God will not respond. Vv8-12: Israel's land will become desolate as God "pours out [His] wrath like water." Israel pursued "filth." Vv13-14: In their weakness, Israel seeks alliances with Assyria but even this alliance cannot cure what only God can cure - which is a heart that does not know or love God. Ultimately we know that Assyria overtakes Israel and Israel goes into exile.
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid half-hearted confessions of sin. Claim the promise that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Follow the example of David who sought God with a contrite heart - Psalm 51:17. Love and know God with all of your heart.
My Prayer: Father God, thank You for saving me, and for showing me incredible mercies that never cease and are new every morning. What a great God You are that I can come to You with a contrite heart and seek forgiveness of sin. I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
