The Righteous Walk in God’s Ways, While the Rebellious Trip Over His Words
As the prophecy of Hosea winds down he urges Israel (and us) to turn from our shortcomings and return to God. When we do this, blessing will follow: blessings for us and for others through us.
Once again, we have this concept in the Bible of being blessed so that we can be a blessing to others.
After this conclusion to his message, Hosea tacks on a final thought. He says that God’s ways are right. Those who are righteous walk with God; they follow him. Those who rebel against God will stumble (Hosea 14:9).
If we find ourselves stumbling over what God tells us to do, this could imply we’re rebellious. This doesn’t mean we can’t have questions. In fact, I think God enjoys our questions—as long as we’re sincere and ask with the right motives.
If we disregard what he says, we shouldn’t be surprised when we trip over it.
Walk with God and Do Not Rebel
Some people read the Bible and delight in it. They’re happy to follow God and walk in his ways.
Other people read the Bible and mock it. They think it’s outdated and irrelevant for their lives in today’s world. Yet in ignoring it, they end up stumbling over it.
Then they can’t figure out why their lives are a mess. “Why don’t things work out for me?” they ask. “Why can’t I catch a break?” But this happens when they rebel against God and stumble over what he tells them to do.
They can’t have it both ways.
Though God doesn’t force himself on anyone, a person can’t rebel against him and ignore his words and then expect to receive his blessings. People who don’t know God stumble over his ways and fall.
Ironically, these rebellious people then often blame God for their troubles. But he didn’t cause them. They did.
Walk with God, and do not stumble.
[Read through the Bible this year. Today’s reading is Hosea 12-14, and today’s post is on Hosea 14:9.]
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.
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