06/08/2020 - EPHRAIM´S SAD JOURNEY

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Now they sin more and more, And have made for themselves molded images, Idols of their silver, according to their skill; All of it is the work of craftsmen. They say of them, “Let the men who sacrifice kiss the calves!” Hoshea 13:2

The Israelites of Ephraim´s tribe repeatedly sinned, but when warned by God, they repented. However, after some time, when retried, they failed again. It irritated the Lord. The people were aware of their transgression, but showed no genuine fear and regret to permanently interrupt their evil practices. Therefore, they always returned to bad behavior.

When they sinned, the little fear that existed between them and the rebukes they received from some of God’s servants made them ask the Most High for forgiveness. However, in the next temptation, they fell again. This type of procedure ruins the soul of those who do this and has been common in many people’s lives.

The members of this tribe made for themselves images created by other people or their perverted minds. This has happened to many children of God. They are following in the footsteps of those who have corrupted themselves in the art of provoking the Lord and pleasing the wicked. This bad example weighs heavily on the life of those who sin today. Have mercy!

The Ephraimites made idols of their silver. This shows us that, to make mistakes, there is no high price, but to do good. Sexual fantasies have led individuals to spend what they have and, in some cases, even to get into debt. The cost to get some extra pleasure is not taken into account by those who are bewitched by the evil one. The shame they will suffer upon discovery and the suffering they will impose on their family have not been considered either.

One must neglect to observe the abilities of some to provoke lust. Eve believed that God had not told the truth as to the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Then, seeing that he was good to eat, pleasing to the eye, and desirable to give understanding (Gen. 3:6), he tasted it and gave it to Adam as well. The Lord’s prohibitions must be obeyed. Whoever practices them will be corrupted.

Jesus said that the children of darkness are more skilled than those of light (Luke 16: 8). The innocence with which we are clothed by God to walk with Him must never be despised. If we believe the lies of the devil, corruption will undo our moral reserves. We will be servants whom we are inclined to serve. Remember: the artisans prepared by Hell are persuasive!

The sons of Jacob kissed the golden calves instead of worshiping the Lord. The kiss may be our signature of surrender to the adversary and eternal perdition. This is the way to the sad end! Repent and turn to the Most High while it is time!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares