Loyalty

“What shall I do with you, O Ephraim? What shall I do with you, O Judah? For your loyalty is like a morning cloud and like the dew which goes away early. Therefore I have hewn them in pieces by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of My mouth; and the judgments on you are like the light that goes forth. For I delight in loyalty rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” Hosea 6:4-6

In certain sections of the country, a morning fog is almost a daily occurrence - the day beginning with a heavy mist which dissipates within a few hours. The prophet Hosea described the Israelites’ relationship to God in a similar way: “...For your loyalty is like a morning cloud and like the dew which goes away early” (Hosea 6:4).

Loyalty is an essential ingredient in the relationship between God and man. In the Old Testament the Hebrew word for lovingkindness, hesed, is translated as “loyal, faithful, steadfast love.” Despite man’s rebellion and sin, God kept His covenant love for man through the generations, fulfilling His eternal plan for reconciliation through the cross of Christ. In return God expects the wholehearted allegiance of His followers.

Are you actively demonstrating your loyalty to Jesus Christ? Has your devotion to the Lord slackened over the years? Do you question God’s care? The Lord Jesus Christ is not as interested in your money or time or activity level as He is in your heart. He wants your wholehearted devotion that is not diminished by time or circumstances.

“...but who can find a trustworthy man?” Proverbs 20:6