Hosea 14:1-9
Q.1. What was God’s appeal to the erring nation? Why is such an approach essential before restoration? – (Hos.14:1-3)
Israel had been relying on the other nations and their gods. In returning to the Lord, they had to be willing to acknowledge their sins, and express genuine sorrow – Take words with you and return to the Lord. Say to Him, “Take away all iniquity And receive us graciously, That we may present the fruit of our lips (Hos.14:2). God cannot forgive the impenitent. This is the pre-condition of restoration. Israel needed to recognize that the defenceless orphan finds mercy from God, where the arrogant do not.
Q.2. To whom did God especially direct His appeal? What did the Lord foreshadow about a future for His people? – (Hos.14:4-9)
God had treated His people with favour – Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; Whoever is discerning, let him know them. For the ways of the Lord are right, and the righteous will walk in them, but transgressors will stumble in them (Hos.14:9). To such as these He made the promise – I will heal their apostasy, I will love them freely, for My anger has turned away from them (Hos.14:4). Then they would again be fruitful in the land – Those who live in his shadow will again raise grain … (Hos.14:7). Thus God revealed through His prophet that the coming judgment was to purge Israel of sin, so that He might bless them again.