Hosea 11

Summary: Just as God is ready to drop the hammer on Israel, He has a change of heart. God doesn't promise a lack of suffering, but He does promise eventual mercy.

Response: I think a lot of people have trouble with this picture of God at His turning point and conclusion: He is ready to smite, as is His right, but then He relents. Humans that abuse sometimes follow the same pattern: "I'll forgive you this time, but watch out next time" or "I forgive you but you still need punished." And, again, I'm not saying we aren't guilty or that God can't rightfully punish.

But our consequences are usually our own doing. It breaks God's heart to watch us fail, but pushing us to do 'the right thing' against our will isn't how He operates. He gave us this free will with the chance that we'd run back, the way it says Judah has, but there's always the chance we'll just wander off like Israel.

Lord, keep calling me back. Help me to listen and turn back to You.

Hosea 10

Summary: Through Hosea, God gives His people warning after warning that their idolatry is taking them down the wrong path, and that such a path leads to destruction.

Response: In the midst of a lot of prophecy, there's a small bit of mercy; that if they'd start fresh with God, He would love and bless them. But God knows their hearts and, unfortunately, they are hardened. God, soften mine; turn me around, yoke me and point me to new fields to plow if it is Your will to do so.

Hosea 9

Summary: Through Hosea, God warns His people that their current actions (fertility cults at the top of the list) will get them infertile, defeated, enslaved, and killed.

Response: God, I'm sure you've shown similar signs to me that should be clear as day. Help me to hear and understand and change my direction.