Then in haste every man of them took his garment and put it under him on the bare steps, and they blew the trumpet and proclaimed, “Jehu is king.” 2 Kings 9:13
2 Kings 9 begins with a prophet appointing Jehu king over Israel. The Lord chose Jehu as Israel’s king because of the great evil of Jezebel, queen of Israel, and Ahab’s sons. Jehu takes over the kingdom and kills Jezebel, fulfilling the words God spoke through Elijah that Jezebel would have no burial. The Lord used Jehu as a device for carrying out His purposes and Word; however, Jehu was still a sinner. The Lord later tells Hosea to name his newborn son Jezreel saying:
“…in just a little while I will punish the house of Jehu for the blood of Jezreel, and I will put an end to the king of the house of Israel” Hosea 1:4b
The Lord was able to use a wicked man like Jehu to carry out His ultimate plan.
“Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant. Let your mercy come to me, that I may live” Psalm 119:76-77
Psalm 119 speaks of God’s steadfast and unfailing love. The Lord chose to symbolize this love when He told Hosea to marry Gomar, a prostitute. Hosea’s marriage to Gomar represents God’s relationship with Israel. He loves them even though they have gone astray and been unfaithful. However, the Lord tells of a time when Israel will follow Him:
“And in the place where it was said to them, “You are not my people” it shall be said to them “Children of the living God” Hosea 1:10b
“Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:11b-12
Since God has saved me and called me His despite my unfaithfulness, I should pursue the things of God and live to please Him.
“Your hands have made and fashioned me; give me understanding that I may learn your commandments. Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice because I have hoped in your word.” Psalm 119: 73-74
Dear God, thank You for loving me despite my failings and mistakes. Please help me follow You and obey Your words and teachings. Amen.
Nathanael (nborger2017)
Sixty-six books in a year 