No Knowledge of God in the Land

This morning we continue in our study through the book of Hosea as we consider Hosea 4:1-19. In the text the Lord accuses Israel of having no knowledge of God. Hosea writes, "There is no faithfulness or steadfast love, and no knowledge of God in the land" (Hosea 4:1b). Later he says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6). This lack of knowledge reveals itself in the people swearing, lying, killing, stealing, committing adultery, worshipping idols as they inquire of a piece of wood. They offer sacrifice with cult prostitutes and they cherish whoredom and wine. The people are described as a stubborn heifer since they lack understanding.

The text shows us that lacking a genuine knowledge of God leads to destruction. Hosea 4 challenges us and calls us to examine our hearts. How are we like a stubborn heifer? Are we longing for genuine knowledge of God? We can know God through a personal relationship with Jesus that comes through faith. The more we grow in knowing God, the more we will want to be shaped and formed by His Word. May God give us grace to have a genuine knowledge of God that expresses itself in growing in grace and living holy and righteously before God.