Bible Chapter: Hosea 9 & 10

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
As I read the Bible, so many times I see a direct correlation between then and now. I am reminded of the adage: learn from history or you are bound to repeat it.  The time of Israel’s punishment came.  Something they would know all too well – judgement.  It came because of their great sin and hostility towards God.  They rejected what the prophets said, calling them crazy.  Israel was hostile toward those who preached against their sin or warned them of judgment.  This is something I have often said today, our nation needs to hear the word judgement.  It is common today for spiritual leaders to face opposition and ridicule when they challenge sin and call for repentance.  Today millions of people who claim Christianity are actively promoting sin and encouraging those who commit it.  God told His people that they would be wanderers, a scattered nation of homeless drifters.  This is because they refused to listened to the warnings God gave through the prophets.
Another accurate comparison to the modern world is prosperity.  The more Israel prospered, the more they rejected what God said and took part in idolatry.  They equated success with God’s blessing and approval.  They were filled with pride and neglected God.  What do I want?  That became the cry then as it is now.  Sadly, it leads to nothing but problems.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Forgetting God.  It makes a person hard and unresponsive to truth and righteousness.  Israel had that problem.  God told them to break up their unplowed ground.  When it is unplowed and neglected, soil becomes so hard that it can’t receive seed, hence it is basically worthless.  This is a description of the people’s hearts.  They were like cement spiritually.  God called for them to break up their hard hearts through true repentance. They needed to have a change of heart attitude so they would  admit their sin, turn from their selfish ways and surrender to God. Then they could plant good spiritual seeds in their lives.  Learn to never forget or ignore God.

3.  How can I help someone?
Pay attention to the things God says.  He doesn’t change.  He doesn’t worry about the latest opinion polls.  He doesn’t care about popularity.  His is righteous and He is the standard for all of the human race.  Listen and obey.