September 6, 2010 - The Result Of Returning To God

Meditation on Hosea 14

Hosea had pointed out the tragic consequences of sinning against God. Then in his final words, he encouraged them to return to God by confessing their sins and asking God for forgiveness. Then Hosea said something similar to, yet long before the book of Hebrews was written like this, "For we will offer the sacrifices of our lips." (v. 2 cf. Hebrews 13:15) Then God would heal them and bless them abundantly. Israel would grow again powerfully. Their land would be productive again. God would not be angry against them but to love them freely.

Here was the most important manifestation of turning back to God: "Ephraim shall say, "What have I to do anymore with idols?"" (v. 8 NKJV) The abandonment of idols was the clear indication of their sincere repentance before God.

Do you have any idols that have been more important to your Savior? Keep yourself away from it.