Faithful: A Study in HoseaSample

What does it say?

Israel would reap the Lord’s unfailing love if they sought Him by sowing righteousness instead of wickedness.

What does it mean?

Israel had remained in the depths of depravity since the shocking incident with the priest’s concubine in Gibeah (Judges 19). But shock eventually gave way, and evil slowly became prevalent throughout Jewish society. How? God’s people sowed wickedness instead of righteousness. Over time, the once fruitful vine of Israel turned into hard ground, growing only weeds and thorns. The fruit of their actions deceived them into thinking that military strength could replace God’s presence. Hosea’s solution to their sin problem was echoed by other prophets of his time, “Seek the Lord” (Isa. 55:6; Amos 5:6).

How should I respond?

You don’t have to live in an agricultural society to understand the natural laws of planting and harvesting: a pumpkin seed cannot produce a tomato. In the same way, spiritual laws govern whether good or bad fruit is produced in your life (Gal. 5:19-23). What bad fruit has resulted from allowing evil to be planted in your heart and mind? Today’s passage is both a warning against becoming accustomed to sin and a call to seek the Lord. Good, spiritual fruit is the product of sowing seeds that please the Spirit, not your sinful nature (Gal. 6:7-10). What kind of fruit will you produce today?