In this chapter, the Lord explains that Israel’s self-destructive behavior has caused the Lord to reject them. Here’s the chapter in its entirety: “Sound the alarm! The enemy descends like an eagle on the people of the Lord, for they have broken my covenant and revolted against my law. Now Israel pleads with me, ‘Help us, for you are our God!’ But it is too late! (Lord, help us get it together before it is too late.) The people of Israel have rejected what is good, and now their enemies will chase after them. The people have appointed kings and princes, but not with my consent. By making idols for themselves from their silver and gold, they have brought about their own destruction.” (Wow!)
“O Samaria, I reject this calf – this idol you have made. My fury burns against you. How long will you be incapable of innocence? This calf you worship was crafted by our own hands! It is not God! Therefore, it must be smashed to bits.”
“They have planted the wind and will harvest the whirlwind. The stalks of wheat wither, producing no grain. And if there is any grain, foreigners will eat it. The people of Israel have been swallowed up; they lie among the nations like an old pot that no one wants. Like a wild donkey looking for a mate, they have gone up to Assyria. The people of Israel have sold themselves to many lands, I will now gather them together. Then they will writhe under the burden of the great king!”
“Israel has built many altars to take away sin, but these very altars became places for sinning! Even though I gave them all my laws, they act as if those laws don’t apply to them. The people of Israel love their rituals of sacrifice, but to me their sacrifices are all meaningless! I will call my people to account for their sins, and I will punish them. They will go back down to Egypt.” (Wow… the process and procedures of being religious is meaningless to the Lord. What’s in our hearts…how much do we really love the Lord? God wants our love, not our rituals!)
“Israel has built great palaces, and Judah has fortified its cities. But they have both forgotten their Maker. Therefore, I will send down fire on their palaces and burn their fortresses.” (Hosea 8) (Wow!)
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Help us grow our love for you. Place in us a clean heart…one that worships, adores, and loves you! Lord, we love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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