Our scripture today is Hosea 14:9 (ESV).
Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; whoever is discerning, let him know them; for the ways of the Lord are right, and the upright walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them.
We have heard guidance such as Hosea offers here before. In Psalm 107:43 we are taught “Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.” This is not the simple rhetoric trick of “if you want to be seen as wise, think this” that appeals to our vanity. This is a loving concern for God’s children, not merely seeming wise but truly being wise by following the Lord. We have also heard the warning in the last phrase before: “The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the blameless, but destruction to evildoers” (Proverbs 10:29). God is a place of refuge for all that put their trust in Him.
Heavenly Father, we are sorry when we forget all You have done for us. Forgive us, and give us new strength to stand against evil with Your love. Amen.
