Daily Devotions
Hosea
"Ephraim shall be desolate in the day of rebuke"
Text: Hosea 5:9
A DIRECT WORD
Hosea would sometimes speak in general terms, referring to the nation. But there were other times when he would bring a direct word to individual tribes. Benjamin was addressed first and now Ephraim.
“Ephraim shall be desolate in the day of rebuke;
Among the tribes of Israel I make known what is sure.”
Hosea 5:9
1. Ephraim
a) This was the leading tribe in the Northern Kingdom of Israel.
b) It was famed for its idolatry (Hosea 5:5).
c) Ignorance of God was obvious (Hosea 5:4).
d) Pride and iniquity were also highlighted (Hosea 5:5).
2. “Ephraim shall be desolate”
a) Ephraim may have felt strong and secure.
b) But when war comes, it would become desolate.
i) Israel would be defeated.
ii) The nation would be destroyed and made desolate.
3. “In the day of rebuke”
a) This rebuke would come from the Lord.
b) This rebuke would come in the form of war and destruction.
c) The verbal word of rebuke had fallen on deaf ears.
4. “Among the tribes of Israel”
a) Benjamin and Ephraim were already mentioned.
b) Though the other tribes were not specifically mentioned in the written text, nevertheless, the meaning is clear.
c) The direct word to Benjamin and Ephraim was meant for all the tribes of Israel.
5. “I make known what is sure”
a) A prophet’s ministry:
i) He must be able to foretell.
ii) He must also have the courage to forthtell (preach; to make known).
b) What is sure
The fate of Israel was made very clear. This word of prophecy was not a mere comment. It was a prediction that would certainly come to pass!