S) "11 Ephraim is oppressed, crushed in judgment,
Because he was determined to follow man’s command."
Hosea 5:11 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Hosea 5
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Hosea 5
O) Hosea was given a word against several tribes of Israel, including Judah and Benjamin (although they were still a separate kingdom). But, it is the judgment against Ephraim that seems to be highlighted in this chapter. In this line, God specifically rebuked them because their allegiance was to people, instead of to God. The leaders were more concerned with giving people what they wanted, following their direction, instead of leading them. They were determined to follow the crowd, instead of following the LORD. Because of that, they themselves were oppressed and crushed. The judgment itself needs to be kept in context, though. Ephraim was also said to have a wound and a sickness, but those are metaphors, just as God described Himself as a moth and a lion against them. So also, their oppressed and crushed sentence was not really a physical one.
A) There is a spiritual affliction that takes place when I go along with the ways of the world. If I allow myself to be swayed by popular opinion, as opposed to being led by the truth of Scripture, then I will find myself with an oppressed and crushed spirit within me. That will be the beginning of a spiral, leading me to depression and a whole host of other issues. The solution, is to be determined in my obedience to God's word. By determining to follow God's command, I will continue to walk in freedom and peace. Even though that will put me at odds with the world, more often than not, there will be no oppression or crushing me. Then, I will be like Paul said, I will not be crushed, I will not be destroyed (see 2 Corinthians 4:7-10).
P) Father God, I am determined to follow Your command and none other. Your ways lead to life and peace, joy and hope. The ways of man lead to death and destruction. There is no real choice to make, in this regard. You are so full of grace toward us, Lord. You are so full of compassion, so patient and kind. Thank You for being the good Father You are. Help me to be bold in my devotion, and focused on seeking You. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, and I desire to obey You in every way, and only You. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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