Hosea 4:11
The Lord says, "Wine,
both old and new, is robbing my people of their senses!"
The
Lord charged the Israelites with their indiscretions and sins:
idolatry, gluttony, greed, and in this passage, harlotry and
drunkenness. They had chosen to follow this terrible path, away from
the direction the Lord had set for them. The Lord told them they
would be accountable and punished, along with their priests who had
become corrupt as well. There would be no hiding behind their
leaders, or be able to offer the excuse that it wasn't their fault
because the priests led them astray. The Lord holds us all
accountable, especially the ones who have been blessed with His
knowledge.
As a
part of "life", we must all work hard, hopefully earning a
good wage, enjoying good meals, and heck, even a glass of wine. Both
the t-shirt and bumper sticker tell us that "Life Is Good."
However, it is the LOVE of such things, and the placing of importance
upon these things that bring us out of focus. God's central place in
our lives is taken over by the love of what our money buys, and the
void we're filling with too much food and strong drink. We've even
become obsessed with watching others battle their addictions and hash
out their problems on television.
Just
as the priests were held up as examples, we should also stay on task
for the sake of our children. We are responsible for their knowledge,
growth, and development; and our actions will speak volumes to them.
The same goes for how we are seen as Christians by those we
encounter. If we lead as the Lord has taught us, many will follow.
Heavenly Father, We
know that we're not perfect and that you are not expecting us to be.
We should, however, always strive to be, and if we follow your word
and direction we will be empowered to not stray as often. All you ask
from us is to acknowledge our sins and ask for forgiveness. If we
place our faith in you and turn over complete control, we will be
eternally blessed with that forgiveness. In your son's name we pray.
Amen
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