Get right yourself and pray for others to get right too

Are you thankful? I am. But sometimes I forget and I move into a mode of "taking it for granted". I have so many things going for me but I forget how they came about. It may have been something my wife did, my co-worker, or perhaps God Himself. When I forget God, He will respond to remind me of my need to return to Him. Israel was in a state of apostasy as described here in chapter 8 of Hosea and ends with this verse.

Hosea 8:14

For Israel has forgotten his Maker,

And has built temples;

Judah also has multiplied fortified cities;

But I will send fire upon his cities,

And it shall devour his palaces.

I am reminded of the counsel given about how to deal with Gideon's act of destroying the altar of Baal during his time. The people were ready to kill the person that destroyed their place of worship. However, they agreed with Gideon's father that Baal will contend with Gideon for his actions rather them the people. Though the two events in Judges and Hosea were referring to different issues, the common factor is the understanding that wrongdoing will be dealt with by God without the need for human intervention.

We see many cultures and faiths where people try to be their god, and pronounce and execute judgment as though their god is unable to do it himself. Vengeance is mine says the Lord. He can protect His own name. Man is not "god enough" to punish those who do things against God. If God is God, He will act against those that come against His Name. The people were doing things against God, and God will respond. Sometimes they may be acting against us, and God will respond.

Father, if I see a brother or sister sin against you, let me pray for them to repent, instead of trying to act out your vengeance.

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