Scripture: Hosea 14:9

Who is wise? He will realize these things. Who is discerning? He will understand them. The ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them.

Scripture Commentary:

Hosea closes with an appeal to listen and learn from God’s word. To those receiving the Lord’s message through Hosea, this meant the difference between life and death.

God’s concern for justice can be seen in his dealings with Hosea. He required faithfulness and a love that offered forgiveness from Hosea. For you, the reader of the book of Hosea, the choice is similar. Either listen to the book’s message and follow God’s ways, or refuse to walk along the Lord’s path.

We can err by forgetting God’s love and feeling like our sins are hopeless. We can err by forgetting his wrath against our sins and ignorantly believe he will accept us no matter how we act. People who insist on following their own direction without God’s guidance are in “deep darkness, they do not know what makes them stumble.” If you are lost you can find the way by turning from your sin and following God.

Forgiveness is a key word. When God forgives us he judges the sin but shows mercy on the sinner. We should never be afraid to come to God for a clean slate. Remember, we must forgive others before we can ask for forgiveness.

Read the Entire Chapter:
Hosea Chapter 14