Hosea 8

In previous chapters, we have read much about the rebuke of Israel’s unfaithfulness, together with serious warnings about the consequences, and a sincere plea for Israel’s repentance in order to restore their relationship with God.

“Set the trumpet to your mouth!
He shall come like an eagle against the house of the Lord,
Because they have transgressed My covenant
And rebelled against My law. (Hosea 8:1)

In today’s chapter, the message continues, but appeared to have reached another level. The chapter began with an instruction to “set the trumpet to [their] mouth,” signifying the announcement of a major event. There seemed to be greater urgency and finality here as the chapter starts with the prophecy of the ‘eagle’ against the house of the Lord, and ends with God’s concluding statement that He will send fire upon the cities.

“For Israel has forgotten his Maker,
And has built temples;
Judah also has multiplied fortified cities;
But I will send fire upon his cities,
And it shall devour his palaces.” (Hosea 8:14)

Similar to previous chapters, we read of the apostasy of Israel and how they have committed spiritual harlotry. Yet, in today’s chapter, what is different is the focus on the consequence. No mercy mentioned here. Neither is hope given. Scary is such a day!

I have written for him the great things of My law,
But they were considered a strange thing. (Hosea 8:12)

God has clearly and repeatedly revealed Himself to Israel and His commandments are clear. Yet Israel has time and again broken the covenant they had with God. They have chosen the path without God, and although they still offered sacrifices (going through the motions of their faith), their hearts were far from God.

2 Timothy 3:5 speaks about men in the last days having a form of godliness but denying its power. These people may appear to be godly but in fact, they do not have a personal relationship with God! They do not know God (Hosea 4:1); neither would God know them (Matthew 7:21-23)!

Today, the trumpet has sounded; the second coming of the Lord is at hand. God has revealed Himself clearly to us through the Bible but are we going through the motions of our faith without really knowing Him? Let’s not wait until God announces, “This is it! No more mercy. No more hope,” before we cry, “My God, we know You!” (Hosea 8:2). Let everyday be a new beginning to know God at a deeper level.