Ripe for Ruin

I don't know about you, but sometimes I am weary of the fight. I am weary of the struggle, the brokenness, the lack of "success." This morning I opened Hosea and read it. Seeking some help in understanding, I turned to google.

And it led me to this from Matthew Henry:

Hosea 5:8-15
"The destruction of impenitent sinners is not mere talk, to frighten them, it is a sentence which will not be recalled. And it is a mercy that we have timely warning given us, that we may flee from the wrath to come.

Compliance with the commandments of men, who thwart the commandments of God, ripens a people for ruin. The judgments of God are sometimes to a sinful people as a moth, and as rottenness, or as a worm; as these consume the clothes and the wood, so shall the judgments of God consume them.

Silently, they shall think themselves safe and thriving, but when they look into their state, shall find themselves wasting and decaying. Slowly, for the Lord gives them space to repent. Many a nation; as well as many a person, dies of a consumption. Gradually, God comes upon sinners with lesser judgments, to prevent greater, if they will be wise, and take warning.

When Israel and Judah found themselves in danger, they sought the protection of the Assyrians, but this only helped to make their wound the worse.

They would be forced to apply to God. He will bring them home to himself, by afflictions.

When men begin to complain more of their sins than of their afflictions, then there begins to be some hope of them; and when under the conviction of sin, and the corrections of the rod, we must seek the knowledge of God. Those who are led by severe trials to seek God earnestly and sincerely, will find him a present help and an effectual refuge; for with him is plenteous redemption for all who call upon him.

There is solid peace, and there only, where God is."

Weary, still I may be. But hopeful that this is bringing me closer to God. And this leads me to press on. Our ways and thoughts are never like His but His are right. And He is working to make our ways His--if we will only ask. In the midst of it all, may I never turn to my Assyria, but to my God. Be encouraged!