
19/09/2025
“Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me. And they have not cried unto me with their heart, when they howled upon their beds: they assemble themselves for corn and wine, and they rebel against me. Though I have bound and strengthened their arms, yet do they imagine mischief against me. They return, but not to the most High: they are like a deceitful bow: their princes shall fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue: this shall be their derision in the land of Egypt.” — Hosea 7:13–16
In this chapter, the Lord is repeatedly rebuking Israel for her sin. Throughout Hosea, Israel is pictured as an unfaithful wife, while Hosea himself (whose very name means Jehovah is salvation) represents God—His faithful love, His patience, and His plan to one day restore Israel as His own.
But these warnings and illustrations don’t just apply to Israel; they apply to us as well.
“like a deceitful bow.”
As a hunter, this image hits home. A bow may look strong and ready, but if it’s warped or untrue, it will never send the arrow to its target. That’s how Israel was—appearing outwardly prepared, yet inwardly unfaithful and missing the very purpose God gave them… unable to hit the target!
Instead of just looking the part, let’s take Israel’s example as a warning. Let’s cast down the false appearance and truly be faithful to the purpose God has given us—living in obedience, truth, and love toward Him.