Friday
READ: Hosea 4:15-19, Psalm 47
SOAP: Psalm 47:8
God reigns over the nations;
God sits on his holy throne. – Psalm 47:8
In today’s verses, Hosea gives Judah a warning. At this time, God’s people were divided into two nations – Israel to the north, and Judah to the south. Israel’s abandonment of their beliefs was far more ingrained, so Judah is cautioned against following Israel’s sinful ways.
The cities of Gilgal and Beth Aven were centers of idolatry in Israel. For a citizen of Judah to travel there meant they shared in Israel’s idolatry. At one time, Gilgal was a place where prophets trained under Elijah and Elisha (2 Kings 2:1; 4:38). But in Hosea’s day, it had become a center of false worship (Hosea 9:15; 12:11; Amos 4:4; 5:5).
1 Corinthians 15:33 says “Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals.” Don´t imitate the wicked ways of the people around you. Maybe you think they´re more successful, they have a better life, or things are better and easier for them. Don´t allow the enemy to deceive you. Only in Christ can we have abundant life. We have a Holy God, and He sits on His throne no matter the circumstances.
Dear Lord, how many times do I look at the greener grass on the other side, thinking that there are people who have it all figured out. Help me remember that it is only in You that I find satisfaction. I want to follow You and only You. Give me the strength to follow Your ways every day of my life. Amen.