S) "3 So let us know, let us press on to know the LORD.
His going forth is as certain as the dawn;
And He will come to us like the rain,
Like the spring rain watering the earth."
Hosea 6:3 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Hosea 6
O) There are a few facets to this verse (and the chapter). On the surface, there is a right response to the prophet's words, in that they said they should return to their God. They said they should know Him, even that they should "press on," expressing a level of commitment and determination that is required to really follow God. They confess that God isn't going to change, recognizing His steady and true character. His ways are certain, reliable, and consistent, like the coming dawn. It will continue just as it has, whether we want it to or not. And, they recognize His goodness. With Him, there are blessings and providence. There is refreshing and cleansing, like the spring rain. Unfortunately, the very next verse exposes their insincerity. This was lip service to God.
A) What the people said was indeed all true. The application of this verse is really about adopting these words, only with sincerity. What I really like about this verse, pulled out of the other verses while remembering context, is that I can really pray it pretty directly. The preceding verses talked about returning to God, but I have determined to never leave Him again. This individual verse, though, is a confession of dedication, God's holiness, and His goodness.
P) Father, let me know, let me press on to know You. Your going forth is as certain as the dawn; and come to me like the rain, like the spring rain watering the earth. Knowledge of You takes time, committed to Your word, committed to prayer. Dedicated through famine or feast, rains or drought, I will press on to know You. Throughout all of existence, You have never changed. You continue, in truth, even more consistently than the dawn. Knowing You, having a deep knowledge of You, is a blessing in itself. I also know that there are eternal promises, spiritual blessings, that You have for me, as I become more and more a disciple of Jesus Christ. Let me continue in that discipline, to be Your son. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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