“Do not rejoice, O Israel… .”  Rather than facing their history and decline, Israel wanted to live in denial. Hosea reminded them of two national scandals. In verse 9, he reminded them of the record in Judges 19 of a gang rape by “the men of the city.”  In verse 10, he referenced the events of “Baal-peor” from Numbers 25. Their wealth had deceived them (Hos 10:1,2). What hope could Hosea offer the nation?

“Sow with a view to righteousness, reap in accordance with kindness; break up your fallow ground; it is time to seek the Lord until he comes to rain righteousness on you” (10:12). There is still time for us.