December 15

“When Israel was a child, I loved him, And out of Egypt I called My son.” Hosea 11:1

The prophet Hosea had been looking back over Israel’s history as well as prophetically into the future when, under the Holy Spirit’s leading, he penned the above words. The children of the man Israel (formerly Jacob) were intended, as a nation, to be God’s representatives on the earth, to spread the gospel message to the surrounding nations. But, sadly, they failed. Instead, they fell repeatedly into the idolatry of the surrounding godless nations.

Ultimately, Jesus was sent into the world to be a fit representative of God.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, beloved!

Understanding the name “Israel” to mean “Overcomer with God” shines a brighter light upon the wording (and quoting) in the verse above and in Exodus 4:22-23 (quoted yesterday). The Word of God contains a direct parallel between the purpose intended for the nation of Israel and the purpose of Jesus, the ultimate Overcomer.

It is also insightful to recognize how and why the name “Egypt” is used prophetically to symbolize atheism. In their culture of godlessness, there was rampant idolatry which is simply man’s attempt to fill the “God-shaped hole” left in the hearts of those who reject Him.

We sing the beautiful song O Little Town of Bethlehem this time of year. The fourth stanza begins with a prayer: O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us we pray. Cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today!

Revelation 12:4 is a reminder that we have an evil enemy plus a host of his minions who want to devour Jesus as soon as He is born in us! It reads:

His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born.

Beloved, be both encouraged and an encourager to others with these words:

I drew them with gentle cords, With bands of love, And I was to them as those who take the yoke from their neck. I stooped and fed them. Hosea 11:4

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have OVERCOME the world. John 16:33 (emphasis added)