Hosea Chapter 9

Scripture Reading:  Read Hosea Chapter 9.  

More Sin, Less Joy: 

Hosea 9:1 – “Do not rejoice, Israel; do not be jubilant like the other nations. For you have been unfaithful to your God; you love the wages of a prostitute at every threshing floor.”  (NIV)

Have you ever found yourself eagerly anticipating something for months, only to be met with disappointment?  I recall a vacation, a time we had longed for, filled with exciting experiences we had envisioned, only to be left with a sense of letdown.  This is the nature of sin; it entices with the promise of joy but ultimately delivers heartache and sorrow. 

The people of Israel have gone deeper and deeper into sin.  They’ve given themselves over to sin, they’ve walked away from God, they’ve played the harlot and given themselves to other lovers.  Their joy is gone because they’ve chased after things that promise fulfillment but are wicked. 

This passage also represents our nation's current spiritual reality. Prosperity abounds, but sin abounds even more. All around our nation is a façade of prosperity, but in most cases, if you pull back the curtain, destruction, and disappointment abound because of sin. We need God today more than ever; amid our prosperity, we desperately need the Lord, who alone can give true life and joy. 

Prayer:  Lord, forgive me for chasing after things that do not honor you.  Thank you for the true joy and life you give your children.  Help me to pursue your will and your way.