But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by Jehovah their God, and will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by horsemen. Hosea 1: 7, American Standard Version (ASV)
Heavenly Father, Your love is a love that surpasses all understanding, and we thank You for it, in Jesus’ name. Amen
This is one of those promises that are buried so deep, that unless the Holy Spirit points it out to you, it is sure to be overlooked. I have read this chapter so often and never took notice of this text, until today. I asked the Spirit several times, if this was, in fact our text for today. It is.
Our attention is drawn to two aspects of this text. First: God’s feelings toward the house of Judah – mercy; and because of His mercy, he would save them. And the Second aspect is: His method of salvation; He would use no human method to save them. These two aspects speak of two very important attributes of God, His unconditional love, toward His creatures, and His ability to save us single-handedly.
You may argue but why is He playing favorites? Why is He declaring His love for Judah, while banishing Israel from His sight? I must hasten to explain that I am fully aware of the fact that I cannot, nor do I have to, make excuses for the things God does. I simply study Scripture and let Scripture explain itself.
From my extremely limited understanding, God is simply respecting Israel’s choice. “The Israelites are stubborn… “How then can the Lord pasture them like lambs in a meadow?” “Ephraim is joined to idols: leave him alone!” (Hosea 4: 16, 17) “When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah his sores, then Ephraim turned to Assyria, and sent to the great king for help.” (5:13). There is this tendency of Israel (referred to as Ephraim) to turn his back on God constantly; to seek help elsewhere.
But there is also another tendency that I see: God going after Israel (represented by Gomer) in an effort to win her back: “Therefore I am now going to allure her: I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her.” “I will bethroth you to me forever: I will bethroth you in righteousness and justice, in love and compassion. (2: 14, 19) How can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I hand you over, Israel?” “I will not carry out my fierce anger, nor will I turn and devastate Ephraim. For I am God, and not man…” (11: 8,9).
God loves Israel with the same passion that He loves Judah. Israel is just more of a challenge to lead than Judah is. But even though Israel tries God’s patience to the utmost, God finds it hard to give him up! He goes in search of him every time! What Love! What a God!
“O Love that wilt not let me go, I rest my weary soul in Thee; I give Thee back the life I owe, That in Thine ocean depths its flow May richer fuller be.” George Matheson (Church Hymnal, p. 76).
When He saves, He saves to the utmost! But not with bows, and swords, not with a battle, not with horses, or horsemen. He saved us with His blood. Priceless! That is how much He loves us!
That is God’s way of loving. With a love that will not let us go! Even when we were still rebelling against Him, Jesus died for us! If you have never said yes to His invitation of love, why not say yes to Him today. You will never regret it! Let me know if you do! Blessings!