This chapter reads negatively in one way because God’s people were just not walking with Him. They were mixing their faith of Him with their practice of idolatry.
However, what God says to them gives us the keys to see the restoring hand of God which is available to us all. And how we need that restoration work!
“I trained them and strengthened their arms, but they plot evil against me. They do not turn to the Most High; they are like a faulty bow. Their leaders will fall by the sword because of their insolent words. For this they will be ridiculed in the land of Egypt.”
Hosea 7:15-16
A Pastor told me recently how for the first time in 10 years they were holding a baptismal service; another told me they had seen over 70 decisions for Christ in their week of evangelism; another that their church had broken the 50 Sunday attendance mark which they had been praying for such a long time; the stories continue and I see the restoring hand of God. Restoration is happening.
Look at the verses again and turn them upside down and you will see the heart of God and what could have been for these people.
- God is empowering His people and they are an army trained for the battle of winning the lost.
- God is nearing His people as they call upon Him for help.
- God is giving His people success and making sure their efforts are accurate and hit the mark.
- God is protecting His people so that even though it may look like they will fall they don’t.
- God will not allow His people to suffer shame.
May Restoration continue!
Missions Paul 