A spirit of harlotry has led them astray and they have played the harlot, departing from their God. Hosea 4:12 

Did Israel turn away from God to pursue other gods? Not at all. They weren’t attempting to leave the God of their fathers. They just wanted to add the worship of pagan gods to their holy rituals. They expected God to share His glory with other deities. It would be like saying to a spouse, “You won’t mind if I take on a few other lovers besides you, will you?” 

To add to the tension, in Hosea’s day, pagan gods were worshipped by hiring a ritual harlot. This was far more enticing to them than just praying to a statue. Their sin was not just one of the heart, but of the flesh as well. 

We are all born idol makers.  Everyday, I can pressure someone nearby to make me feel good. I can buy things that promise to make my life seem more complete.  I can be beguiled by the promise of approval, success, significance, and even respect if I just sell my soul and perform to meet others’ expectations. 

I wonder if God wraps His arms around Himself, heart aching, when He watches me trade His glory for something cheap in comparison. The picture of that today will make me think twice before being reckless with my affections. 

No wonder Your servant, Paul, described sin as trading in Your glory for anything or anyone else.  Write this on my heart, Lord.  Amen