August 28, 2023: When God Has A Controversy

"Hear the word of the Lord, O children of Israel, for the Lord has a controversy with the inhabitants of the land. There is no faithfulness or steadfast love, and no knowledge of God in the land;" (Hosea 4:1, ESV)

When God starts a conversation with "Hear the Word of the Lord!" you had better listen and pay close attention. It is not an advertisement or 'fluffy' words that God is about to speak. They are words that must be heard, and taken to heart, if we are to live long in the land.
    
I like how the ESV reads, "I have a controversy with you." It is a polite way of God saying, "I have a big problem with you." Anyone in their right mind never wants to have a problem with God. Hosea lists three things that God brings to Israel's attention. One, there is no faithfulness in the land. People go and do what they want to do without thinking about God. They are not faithful to His ways. Two, there is no steadfast love toward God. People are like Hosea's wife, adulterers toward God. Three, there is no knowledge of God in the land. The nation has forgotten God. No wonder God has a controversy with them.
    
The way to avoid controversy with God is easy. Be faithful to His ways. Love Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Increase in your knowledge of Him by spending more time with Him. Do those three things, and God will have no controversy with you.