An old man was trying to pick up his luggage to put it on the rack of the train. As he picked up, he experienced a disc slip, with severe pain, and he fell. He grumbled: “I lifted luggage like this hundreds of times, but it never happened like this.” One young man said, “Uncle, you should realize you have become old.” Ephraim also did not know that his grey hairs were here and there on him. (Hosea 7:8-10)
Unturned cake: Hosea compared Ephraim to unturned cake. On one side, it is well-cooked, but on the other side, uncooked. Half-cooked meals are always dangerous, causing nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Perhaps, politically and economically, Ephraim has become strong, mature, and powerful. In the euphoria of success, they neglected their roots and the Rock of salvation. Hence, spiritually, they were immature, weak, and without energy. Many prosperity preachers and seekers may progress in worldly riches but be corroded in their spiritual life.
Devoured strength: The aliens or strangers who are not people of faith have devoured his strength and stamina. Cultural compromise with people of other faiths, material prosperity led them to create idols in their hearts, and a lack of knowledge of God led to their downfall. They neglected and rejected the Word of God; hence, God will forget their children and reject them as His priest. (Hosea 4:6)
Did not know it: Like the old man, Ephraim did not realize the strength was gone. The nation was burned and ruined, strength devoured, ageing and weakening, and pride testifies against, but does not know it. Did not have the spiritual resources to discern what was happening. Samson also did not realize that the Lord had left him, so his strength was gone. (Judges 16:20)
Did not return: Despite all these warnings and realities, Ephraim failed to return to the Lord. The pride kept them from humbling themselves; prosperity hid their spiritual lack; dwelling in the past, they failed to realize their present weakness and vulnerability. Staying lukewarm and lethargic is dangerous.
Am I lukewarm or fervent for the Lord?