Friday 28 June 2024

Hosea 11:2-12:1 – Why chase after the wind?

In Hosea 11:11, the prophet presents a clear message to the people of Israel. He reveals that Israel’s tradition has depicted them as people entangled in lies and deceit. Even Judah and her people were not exempt from this waywardness and unruliness toward God.

Hosea, in chapter 12, verse 1, reinforces his message. He shows that the people, in their misguided actions, formed unnecessary political alliances. Israel is likened to a person chasing the wind, a vivid metaphor for pursuing something unattainable. In essence, they were chasing a delusion. When a person chases the wind, he seeks something hopelessly unattainable.  In their pursuit, lies and violence were multiplied.   

Their futile efforts could be seen in their pursuit of a political alliance with Assyria and giving expensive gifts to Egypt to gain their support. These nations could not provide the protection and security Israel was seeking. In that sense, she was chasing after the wind.  

Staying focused on God and our faith in Him is essential. Many things may be appealing to the eyes but are truly unreliable. It is foolishness to pursue them to seek security. Our surest bet is in God. Trust Him alone, not on the fleeting promises of deception.

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