Read: Hosea 6:1-11
Come, let us return to the LORD; for he has torn us, that he may heal us; he has struck us down, and he will bind us up. After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, that we may live before him. Let us know; let us press on to know the LORD; his going out is sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth. (vv. 1-3)
At first, these sentiments sound honest—but not so fast. God was not convinced, because their thoughts were like morning dew that quickly burns off (v. 4), and he desired steadfast love, not sacrifice (v. 6). His judgment against them would go forth despite their flowery words (v. 5).
Sometimes we, too, can presume on God’s goodness. We’re as sure as the dawn that God will show up in showers of blessings. Nowhere in Hosea 6:1-3 is repentance or sorrow over sin mentioned. In fact, being torn and broken is attributed to God’s action rather than their own sin. There is no real “turning,” only a culture of self-deception like this: “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth (2 Tim. 4:3-4).
One truth we might need to face is why we love singing about God’s goodness more than repenting. —Amy Clemens
As you pray, ask God to show you if you presume on his goodness.
About the Author
With a bachelors in journalism from Texas Tech University and a masters from Western Theological Seminary, Amy Clemens enjoys all things writing, particularly about the life of faith. She is blessed with a family that includes husband Fred, five children, and five grandchildren.
Amy has just published her first book, "Walking When You'd Rather Fly: Meditations on Faith After the Fall," which weaves her journey from childhood abuse toward healing and spiritual growth with a practical theology for the big story of God. You can find out more about the book and author at walkingwhenyoudratherfly.com.
