Hosea 13

Ephraim, as largest tribe in Israel, had great power and influence. They followed after false gods and multiplied in sin. They won’t last. But God. No rival. No equal. Success brought forgetfulness. God continues His promise by walking beside them, even in judgement. No earthly king is willing to save them now. Ephraim may be the most successful among his family, but when destruction comes, all will be lost.

Ephraim had the influence to do great things for the kingdom of God, but he wasted his God-given skills and time making elaborate idols to worship. Israel actively pursues other gods. His conscience is seared, and he sees no wrong in his growing sin. They kill people but worship animals. (Sound familiar? “Save the whales. Kill the human babies”)  Their power and influence is short-lived. But God’s isn’t. There is no one like God, mighty to save. Their trust in themselves has led them to forget its always been God caring for them. They’ve seen Him as a loving Father, they are about to see Him as a Mama Bear!!! . God is faultlessly faithful. He gives them everything they thought they wanted, to their shame. They’ve stored up sin for themselves. (Romans 2:4-5) God will ransom and redeem, but first the east wind of destruction will come, knocking them from their self-made throne.

This chapter changes me by once again reminding me that God is faithful even when I’m not. God reminds me of who He is and all He’s done. I have dragged Him into situations of my sin. He has walked beside me, carrying both judgement and redemption in His hand. He always, always, has the “ransom money”, the blood of His perfect Son, to buy me back the minute I turn from the sin I’ve wrapped myself in, and turn to Him in repentance. I’m thankful for His fierce, protective love.