Faithful: A Study in HoseaSmakprov

What does it say? Hosea announced God’s judgment against Israel and Judah – He would withdraw Himself from His people. What does it mean? Israel remained on trial as an unfaithful wife, and now Judah stumbled with them. The Lord put His people on the witness stand, approaching the defendant as a prosecuting attorney. Rather than help their case, Israel’s arrogance confirmed their guilt. Pride would indeed go before their fall (Prov. 16:18). The Lord, now acting as their Judge, handed down the sentence – Israel would no longer enjoy His favor or presence. As war with other nations came, they would offer sacrifices. However, they approached God’s altar like a good luck charm rather than with sincerity. The Lord would remain distant until their hypocrisy ended, and they turned to Him in genuine repentance. How should I respond? Nothing reveals our hypocrisy faster than a sudden crisis. What was the last bit of news that sent you into a tailspin? Maybe a relationship ended, or your finances were adversely affected. Did you turn to God in that moment? If so, what was your attitude? Arrogance leads you to think you deserve His blessings. Hypocrisy tries to win His favor through a flurry of religious activity, but without sincerity. Genuine faith, however, causes humility before the Lord – trusting and obeying because of Who He is, not what He can do for you. Live today in the presence of the Lord … just because.