‏ Hosea 7

* The manifold sins of Israel. (1-7) Their senselessness and

hypocrisy. (8-16)

1-7 A practical disbelief of God's government was at the bottom

of all israel's wickedness; as if God could not see it or did

not heed it. Their sins appear on every side of them. Their

hearts were inflamed by evil desires, like a heated oven. In the

midst of their troubles as a nation, the people never thought of

seeking help from God. The actual wickedness of men's lives

bears a very small proportion to what is in their hearts. But

when lust is inwardly cherished, it will break forth into

outward sin. Those who tempt others to drunkenness never can be

their real friends, and often design their ruin. Thus men

execute the Divine vengeance on each other. Those are not only

heated with sin, but hardened in sin, who continue to live

without prayer, even when in trouble and distress. 8-16 Israel was as a cake not turned, half burnt and half

dough, none of it fit for use; a mixture of idolatry and of the

worship of Jehovah. There were tokens of approaching ruin, as

grey hairs are of old age, but they noticed them not. The pride

which leads to break the law of God leads to self-flattery. The

mercy and grace of God are the only refuge to which obstinate

sinners never think of fleeing. Though they may howl forth their

terrors in the form of prayers, they seldom cry to God with

their hearts. Even their prayers for earthly mercies only seek

fuel for their lusts. Their turning from one sect, sentiment,

form, or vice, to another, still leaves them far short of Christ

and holiness. Such are we by nature. And such shall we prove if

left to ourselves. Create in us a clean heart, O God, and renew

a right spirit within us.