Hosea 13:5-8

Consequences of rebellion -- Hosea 13:5-8: God took care of the nation of Israel while they were in the wilderness. He loved and accepted them because they were obedient to Him. He demonstrated His love for them by the many miracles that He used to provide for their needs. Many times they would have perished if God had not provided food and water for them. Israel was like sheep for which God provided abundant pasture. They ate until they were satisfied by the hand of the Shepherd that had done so much for them.

While Israel was obedient to God He blessed them like a tender shepherd. They were given abundant pasture or to say it another way their needs were met beyond measure. Sadly, they became exalted in their heart and forgot God. In Luke 14:11 we read, "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted." Israel was destined to destruction in a foreign land because of her unfaithfulness. God said, "Now I will attack like a lion, ambush you like a leopard, and rip you apart like a bear robbed of her cubs. I will gnaw on your bones, as though I were a lion or some other wild animal." God's wrath would be fierce against this wicked nation. He would expose their hearts to punishment because of their unthankful disobedience.