Today´s Scripture introduces us to Hosea and Jeroboam.
Hosea was a prophet. His name means “salvation” and comes from the same Hebrew root (hoshea) as the names Joshua and Jesus. Throughout the book, Hosea will show us that salvation is found in turning to the Lord and away from our sin.
Hosea’s ministry spanned the years 760 to 720 B.C. during the days of the divided monarchy, when the people of God divided in a civil war, creating two nations: Israel in the north and Judah in the south.
Under the reign of Jeroboam II, Israel prospered politically and materially, but it was a time of significant spiritual and moral decay. Hosea began his ministry at a time when things were so politically successful and economically prosperous that people didn’t look to the Lord the way that they should. The seeds of idolatry, spiritual failure, and moral corruption sown in days of Jeroboam II produced a tragic harvest in the following years.
That happens today, too. Sometimes, when our material needs are covered, we forget about God and how much we need Him. We may think we are living a successful life based on finances, relationships or careers. But, when the priority in our lives is not God, no matter what we do, the seeds of idolatry and spiritual failure will be sown in our hearts too.
Dear God, help me remember that You´re everything I need. I want You to be number one in my life. Don´t allow me to have any idols in my life. I want to live for You. Amen.
Week 1 Challenge: Take some time this week to write down everything that is happening in your current season of life. What are the good things, the hard things, the everyday ordinary things? Have you invited God into each of these areas, or just a few? Spend time with God in prayer about each one, with gratitude for the good, seeking hope for the hard, and a thankful heart for the ordinary.