Hosea is one of the minor prophets in the Old Testament. His book is not minor because it is lesser – it’s minor because it’s a shorter book than the major prophets’ books (Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Ezekiel). Hosea’s name means “salvation,” and it is appropriate for this book because of God’s promises to Israel. Hosea most likely was one of two writing prophets from the northern tribe of Israel (Jonah was the other). Hosea was a contemporary of Amos, Micah, and Isaiah, so he prophesied before Israel’s exile to Assyria. At the time Hosea prophesied, Israel experienced financial affluence and civil peace. But God’s people were bound in ethical depravity and spiritual impoverishment.
In his book, Hosea focused on Israel’s rebellion against the Lord and their violation of the covenant with the Lord. Hosea pronounced God’s imminent judgment against Israel.
“Let us know; let us press on to know the Lord;
The first three chapters of Hosea fluctuate between God’s judgment and salvation of Israel. The Lord used His command to Hosea that he marry an adulterous woman to symbolize Israel’s relationship with Him (Hosea 1-3). As she was unfaithful, so too was Israel in their covenant relationship with God. Within each section, though, is the promise of the judgment being reversed.
Hosea 6:1-3 begins with a future voice coming from a penitent people (Israel and Judah) who earnestly seek the Lord. They addressed the Lord God. These first three verses display a cycle often seen in Hebrew literature. Verses 1a and 3a encompass encouragement and verses 1b-2 and 3b represent an inspiring assurance.
Press on
A true biblical prophet always presents what the Lord has commanded him to convey. Beginning in verse 4, Hosea presents God’s answer to Israel. He chastises them for their fading love (v.4) by asking them (rhetorically) what He is to do with them. He is calling them out for their wickedness against Him and makes His uncontestable accusations regarding their unfaithful hearts.
The Lord is a faithful, covenant-keeping God. He is true, just, gracious, merciful, kind, loving, and holy (to mention several of His amazing attributes). To acknowledge Him is an avowal of agreement regarding Who He is and what He has done, is doing, and will do. This is all according to His perfect nature and will.
His
“And God made the two great lights—the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night—and the stars” (Genesis 1:16).
The One who created the heavens and the earth (and the sun) is as sure as what He created, for He controls every aspect of His creation (Job 37:5-13).
faithfulnesssays
The world in which we Christians live is fraught with pain, grief, wars, strife, idolatry, and persecution, to name a few. When we study the Bible, we can’t help but get to know its Author. And when we know Him more, we trust Him and love Him more. Jesus is the Author and Perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), and we lean into Him in all circumstances. As the Apostle Paul said in Philippians 3:14, “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
All of the Bible displays God’s faithfulness. And we have no reason to fear anything because He is greater in us than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4). Satan is a defeated foe and we are kingdom dwellers, here as Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20), sharing the gospel and the joy that comes from belonging to Christ.
Father God,
Forgive me for doubting You. As I look into Your Word, I see the many ways You have been faithful. You only do wondrous things and sending our Lord Jesus to die because You love us is just one! Thank You for Him and thank You for Your Spirit who has sealed us for You. You keep us protected from the wiles of the evil one, who only seeks to kill and destroy. But he is a liar, and You have already defeated him. You are faithful and true, and my confidence soars like an eagle because I know You keep Your promises. Thank You for never leaving me or forsaking me. I trust You and I love You.
Amen.
He is a cross pendant.
He is engraved with a unique Number.
He will mail it out from Jerusalem.
He will be sent to your Side.
Emmanuel
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