For Israel hath forgotten his Maker, and buildeth temples; and Judah hath multiplied fenced cities: but I will send a fire upon his cities, and it shall devour the palaces thereof. — Hosea 8:14 KJV
Israel has forgotten their Maker and built palaces; Judah has fortified many towns. But I will send fire on their cities that will consume their fortresses.” — Hosea 8:14 NIV
Thought and Reflection
In times of prosperity, God’s people departed from the LORD and worshipped their own gods and adopted an individual moral code. However, neither of them could be considered to be “their own.”
Northern tribes in Israel were merely like the pagan population around them, pursuing the same sham-like ways of life, ignoring those who were poor and alien in their petty exploitation of widows and those who are insignificant. God wanted them to realize that He knew exactly what they had been doing.
God the Almighty required them to understand that He was going to act in a way that would bring peace. The Lord of the universe would have wanted all the tribes in northern Israel to recognize that they’ve created their own ruin and, while they are unable to imagine the possibility of it, God made sure it was going to happen because of their heartlessness and their inability to live in a way that reflects their character.
Their demise is a wonderful reminder for us that the name we use as Christian as well as the claim that we are God’s people, and the holy priesthood, is not important unless our actions show the character of God as well as our hearts display kindness, and our hands follow His direction.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, forgive us for refusing to acknowledge the judicial system, social and racial discrimination. Empower us, Lord to be truly Your Holy Nation. We are bound through the faith we have in Jesus and not based on our race or nationality, age, political preferences or social economic standing, united by our worship of Your glory and exuding the world of hate the mercy that comes from being aware of God’s love for us. In Your Name Jesus I pray. Amen.