Chapter 814 of 1163

HOSEA 1

Gomer was not a harlot when Hosea married her, but God warned him that she would be unfaithful. Like Ezekiel, Hosea had to “live” his message before the people, and that was not an easy thing to do. Expect to pay a price if you want to have a ministry to others (2 Cor. 1:3–11).

The names of the three children summarize the spiritual history of Israel. Jezreel means “God will sow” (2:22–23) and refers to Jehu’s slaughter of his enemies at Jezreel (2 Kings 9–10). He went too far in his zeal, and his descendants would suffer for it when Assyria would take the land. God’s judgments come—no matter how long He seems to wait.

Lo-Ruhamah means “no mercy,” which is the situation of Israel today (3:4). Although God is providentially guiding the Jewish nation, they are not enjoying God’s mercies as before.

Lo-Ammi means “not my people” and speaks of God’s temporary rejection of the nation because of their sins.

Hosea closes with a great affirmation of hope (1:10–2:1)! God will gather His people, claim them once again, and show them mercy. The names of the children will be changed to “My People” and “Mercy.” No matter how dark the day, God promises us hope if we will return to Him in sincere repentance.

Jezreel

The Valley of Jezreel has been a battlefield for many different armies. Saul launched his last battle there (1 Sam. 29:1), and there Jehu destroyed the house of Ahab as well as some innocent people (2 Kings 9–10). When Assyria took Israel, they fought on the plain of Jezreel; and there God avenged the innocent blood shed by Jehu. But Hosea saw a new future for Jezreel (1:11–2:1). Israel and Judah would be united and restored to the land, and they would experience the blessing of God. God would “sow” them in the land (2:21–23) to bear fruit for the glory of God. Only God can give new meanings to old names and wipe out painful associations with old places. Even the Valley of Achor, where Achan died (Josh. 7:16–26), will become a door of hope (2:15).

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