Israel desired healing, but not cleansing. She wanted happiness, but not holiness; changed circumstances without changed character. In other words, Israel faked repentance.
"For your faithfulness is like a morning cloud, and like the early dew it goes away." Hosea 6:4 (NKJV)
Faked repentance promises much yet delivers nothing, like a rainless cloud or disappearing dew. Yet faked repentance is common among people suffering from the consequences of sin. Most of us know this from personal experience, don't you think? That's why the Scripture warns us against hasty, thoughtless words and worship, imagining such things satiate our holy God.
"Walk prudently when you go to the house of God; do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God." Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 (NKJV)
True repentance is a gift from God – because it must be. And God is eager to impart this gift generously to all who desire Him.
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Steve Massey is the pastor of Hayden Bible Church of Hayden, Idaho. He also writes about matters of faith for The Spokesman-Review of Spokane, Wash., where he previously worked as an editor and reporter. He and his wife, Pam, have two grown children, Jake and Sarah.
