“They made kings, but not through me. They set up princes, but I knew it not. With their silver and gold, they made idols for their own destruction.” (Hosea 8:4)

God’s commentary is rich. First, in an apparent effort to organize themselves, they made kings and set up princes. However, God said it wasn’t through him or His knowledge. In other words, they did this without consulting God or receiving his input or direction. Yikes! That sounds like me. 

Second, they used resources (gold and silver) provided by God to do evil. I assume that, similar to setting up kings, Israel thought setting up the idols was a good thing. Although, given how much God forbid it, I’m not sure how they could have thought it was a good thing. But I’m also not sure why I do some of the things I do.

Third, they surely didn’t realize (or perhaps, care?) that the idolatry would lead to their destruction. 

Again, it is easy to sit so far removed by time and distance and criticize Israel’s actions (which are evil!), But … How often do I do things – without consulting the Lord – that I think will be helpful, but in reality I am inviting the Lord’s judgement. 

Father, please forgive my pride, which has allowed me to think I can handle everything without consulting you. In short, thinking I am enough. Please forgive me for the times those thoughts have led to harming your name or people or my relationship with you. Please help me to be more spiritually minded than I am. Amen.

“But they do not consider that I remember all their evil. Now their deeds surround them; they are before my face.” (Hosea 7:2) 

“Ephraim is like a dove, silly and without sense, calling to Egypt, going to Assyria.” (11)

Having already read through this history in other books, I sometimes forget that we have gone back in time from Daniel. At this time, the northern kingdom remains in the land, but it is struggling with idolatry. And the Lord is all too aware of their unfaithfulness. Why is it easy to pretend that the Lord is unaware of my sin? 

He is also aware of their geopolitical movements. Rather than turn to the Lord, they seek an alliance with a nearby superpower. Sometimes with Egypt, sometimes with Assyria. Why is it easier to seek earthly help than to trust the Lord?

I’m struggling with the latter point. In the last week. I found out that a few churches that I’m connected to are going to Israel, but with a different company. Both pastors know I lost my primary teaching job and that I do Israel tours. Neither even allowed me to bid on their trips. I have zero trips scheduled for 2026, and my other teachers are struggling to populate their scheduled groups. 

So many things feel like they are caving in. It’s easy to say, “If this church or that church would partner with me,” without looking to the Lord to send me clients. I feel like I’m reasoning like Ephraim (another name for the northern kingdom), “If we can partner with Egypt, we’ll be safe.” 

Father, help me to cry out to you and not just cry. Please help me to find comfort, provision, and protection in you. Amen.