Self-reliance is an admired ideal, especially for us Americans. But Scripture warns us that the self-reliant risk not only failure, but the dire consequences of leaving God out of their lives. "They sow the wind, and reap the whirlwind.." Hosea 8:7 (NKJV) For love's sake, God warns His people to rely upon Him in every aspect of life. Every good thing anyone experiences comes from God, whether they recognize Him or not. In the days of the prophet Hosea, ancient Israel was blind to her self-reliance; when it came to choosing her leaders, her values, her goals – and even in her worship – self preference, not God's will, was the primary motivation. Sound familiar? As you know, people haven't changed all that much since Hosea's time. That's why the judgment oracles given to God's people through the prophets speak so directly – and helpfully -- to us today. I hope to see you here this Sunday as we continue our study of Hosea, "God's Loyal Love."
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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.
