Saturday 29 March 2014

Background

Similar to the confession of trust that God required of Israelin Hosea 6:1-3, the first part of chapter 14recommended Israel to do the same and acknowledge their need ofGod. Israel's downfall has been their sin and non-reliance uponGod. Here they are admonished to renounce their trust in Assyria'smilitary might and do away with idols, and thento confess theirdependence upon God alone. Only God can heal them and love them toshow that God is no longer angry with them. There is a promise ofrestoration attached to this and a different picture of Israelemerging, like the Garden of Eden - beautiful and flourishing,strong, secure and famous.

Although Israel initially failed to appropriate these blessings,generations after did receive them, fulfilled through those whojoined themselves to Judah in Jerusalem, and to many who joined Godthrough Jesus Christ.

To Ponder:

• "Those who are wise understand these things; those who arediscerning know them. For the ways of the Lord are right, and theupright walk in them" (v. 9 ). There is only one way to live andthat is the Lord's way! How do you respond to these words?