Day 248

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Israel's Day of Discipline

Scripture

September 4—Hosea 9-11: Calamity in Israel

Observation

Though long delayed in God's patient mercy, "the day of recompense is almost here" (9:7). Hosea, whose message of doom has been faithfully broadcast for years, now paints in somber tones the day of tragedy and tears about to befall his countrymen. Premature death, miscarriage, famine, murder, forced labor, and destruction of the nation's fortresses await God's rebellious children. Once a fruitful vine, Israel now lies spiritually barren and fruitless. Though unfaithful to her God, Israel will nevertheless experience again God's faithfulness to her, for her chastening will pave the way for renewed blessing from the hand of her Sovereign.

Doubly fruitful and doubly barren (9:10-12). Ephraim literally means "doubly fruitful." But because the nation had followed after the pagan practices of Baal a heathen religion characterized by fertility rites and temple prostitutes, God would use dispersion and captivity to remove from his people any hope of  heirs. Fruitfulness would turn to barrenness in that "sad day when I turn away and leave you alone" (9:12).

Application

Aren't you glad God is God and not like us? Think of the implications of that truth. If God were like us:
  • His patience would be short
  • His justice would be partial
  • His love would be conditional and fickle
  • His motives would be selfish
Now read 11:9: "For I am God and not man; I am the Holy One living among you, and I did not come to destroy." God's bigness is best seen, not when he exterminates his enemies, but when he exercises his mercy toward those in line for his judgment. And the strength of God's people is most clearly visible when they respond in mercy to those deserving of their revenge!

Make Hosea 11:9 the pattern for your response to someone who has offended you in recent days. It's a sure sign of Christlikeness!

Prayer

Loving Father, we submit ourselves to your authority and we gladly give up our own ways to obey you. We want to have mercy on others just as you have mercy on us. We know you knew us who would believe in you before the foundation of the world so we want to show those that are still lost to you the way to the saving knowledge of our Savior so that they can receive His grace sooner rather than later. You are a perfect God and deserve the best from us so help us to let our obedience influence others to know that obedience glorifies you. Thank you for guiding us in obedience each day through your Word.  In Jesus' name we pray! Amen!

Obedience Saves!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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