Faithful: A Study in HoseaSample

What does it say?

Israel was determined to turn from the Lord even though He had loved, taught, healed, led, and fed them. Would God’s people return to Egypt because they refused to repent?

What does it mean?

The relationship perspective between God and Israel shifts from husband and wife to father and child. The imagery brings to mind a father providing for and teaching his young child. God’s guidance and protection of His people had been evident throughout their history; even surrounding nations feared the God of Israel. But because Israel stubbornly refused to listen to His warnings, they were lured away by the images those nations worshiped (Ex. 23:32-33). They couldn’t recognize the reality of God’s loving intervention as long as they insisted on having their way. Still, their compassionate, Holy Father would discipline – not destroy – His ungrateful, disobedient children.

How should I respond?

Many in our society would say that perception is reality. We can agree that what you believe to be true seems very real, but perceptions can change quickly while the truth is constant. Today’s passage warns that our view of reality will be skewed when we insist on having our way rather than faithfully obeying God’s Word. What personal agenda might you be stubbornly insisting upon? Any plan or path that doesn’t align with Scripture will lure you away from your loving heavenly Father.