Thursday, November 5
Read Hosea 10
Think About It:
- The hearts of the people in Israel were divided. It’s easy to imagine because Israel probably looked a lot like America looks today. Many believe in God, but do not follow His ways or obey His Word. We always want the favor of God without having to commit to Him entirely. Many think they can follow at a distance and keep their “fire insurance” to give them peace of mind about eternity. That doesn’t work. Whatever we sow, we will reap. As Elijah said in I Kings 18:21, “How long will you waiver between two opinions? If the LORD be God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him.” A divided heart is an unfaithful heart. And that’s an open door for the enemy to bring destruction. Jesus came to give us life, and that more abundantly (John 10:10), but when we let the enemy in, Satan comes to kill, steal and destroy. We know that every good and perfect gift comes down from heaven. When we repent, God is faithful to forgive us of past sins, but there are still consequences after we have given the enemy a foothold. Talk to God and search your heart – make sure you are fully committed to following Him.
- In verses 11-12, God says He will make Judah “plow”. “Sow to yourselves in righteousness. Break up your fallow ground” and “seek the LORD”. Matthew 13:3-23 tells us the seed is God’s Word, the ground is our attitude and the thorns and stones are mental blocks and hindrances in our mind and heart. For the seed to take root, we need to remove the thorns and stones for a spiritual harvest. “Judah” means “praise”. Praise is the spiritual force that plows into the soil of our heart and prepares us to receive the Word of God – which is one reason we start our church services with praise and worship. Praise creates a powerful atmosphere that allows the Holy Spirit to refresh our spirits and produce life! Spend a few minutes singing a song of praise, focused on Him!
Family Time:
- How else does justice begin to warp? (verse 4)
