Drifting Away

Sometimes we seek things to bring us pleasure and enjoyment only to find out that they really don't satisfy. The more we want the less we truly receive.

These are some of what Hosea is describing. Things have been multiplied in their lives but the glory they had has changed, it is now shame. Ouch, that hurts, having something valuable turning to useless is not what we want out of life.

Pursuing these pleasure begins a downhill spiral in their lives. They more they go after the less it "rewards them". God bring judgement. Not because He is wicked but because of His great love for the children of Israel.

Hos 4:7-19

7 The more they multiplied, the more they sinned against Me;I will change their glory into shame. 8 They feed on the sin of My people And direct their desire toward their iniquity. 9 And it will be, like people, like priest;So I will punish them for their ways And repay them for their deeds. 10 They will eat, but not have enough; They will play the harlot, but not increase,Because they have stopped giving heed to the Lord. 11 Harlotry, wine and new wine take away the understanding. 12 My people consult their wooden idol, and their diviner's wand informs them;For a spirit of harlotry has led them astray,And they have played the harlot, departing from their God. 13 They offer sacrifices on the tops of the mountains And burn incense on the hills, Under oak, poplar and terebinth, Because their shade is pleasant.Therefore your daughters play the harlot And your brides commit adultery. 14 I will not punish your daughters when they play the harlot Or your brides when they commit adultery, For the men themselves go apart with harlots And offer sacrifices with temple prostitutes;So the people without understanding are ruined. 15 Though you, Israel, play the harlot, Do not let Judah become guilty; Also do not go to Gilgal, Or go up to Beth-aven And take the oath:"As the Lord lives!" 16 Since Israel is stubborn Like a stubborn heifer, Can the Lord now pasture them Like a lamb in a large field? 17 Ephraim is joined to idols; Let him alone. 18 Their liquor gone,They play the harlot continually; Their rulers dearly love shame. 19 The wind wraps them in its wings, And they will be ashamed because of their sacrifices. NASU

Explore for Yourself


8. What are they doing with their desires? What is important to notice about the people and priest?
9. What warning signs do we have when people simply need more?
10. What things take away understanding? What leads them astray?
11. Why do they sacrifice "in the mountains"? Why do the daughters and wives play the harlot?
12. What statement is made concerning men and their leadership?
13. What was Judah to avoid? What could happen in a large open field with sheep?
14. What happen to Ephraim? What does their rulers love? What will bring shame?