God’s prophet, Hosea, presents the tribe of Ephraim as it once had been and then as it was in Hosea’s day. Can you make any comparisons to what is happening today?

So I am to them like a lion; like a leopard I will lurk beside the way. Hosea 13:7

As David Allan Hubbard wrote in his commentary, Ephraim had once enjoyed power and prestige among the other tribes. But now they practiced idolatry, ingratitude, foolish trust in political leaders, and complacency in the face of judgment. They worshipped gods made by men’s hands and forgot God’s grace in leading them out of Egypt. When they became prosperous, they credited themselves instead of the Lord. Because of this, Ephraim fell prey to God’s judgment just as an unsuspecting animal falls victim to a lion lurking close by.

The consequences of wrongdoing never go away. Idolatry can take many forms: power, prestige, wealth, intelligence, beauty or self. Ingratitude and complacency are ever present. God’s wrath would be imminent were it not for His mercy.

Now is the time for a reversal in the hearts of men. Stand beside this nation’s leaders in prayer. Implore God to help Americans seek peace and contentment in worshipping the one true God.

Recommended Reading: Hosea 13:1-10