EGW WritingsHosea 14

The Great Controversy

Chapter 1—The Destruction of Jerusalem

GC 35.3

The Jews had forged their own fetters; they had filled for themselves the cup of vengeance. In the utter destruction that befell them as a nation, and in all the woes that followed them in their dispersion, they were but reaping the harvest which their own hands had sown. Says the prophet: “O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself;” “for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.” Hosea 13:9; 14:1. Their sufferings are often represented as a punishment visited upon them by the direct decree of God. It is thus that the great deceiver seeks to conceal his own work. By stubborn rejection of divine love and mercy, the Jews had caused the protection of God to be withdrawn from them, and Satan was permitted to rule them according to his will. The horrible cruelties enacted in the destruction of Jerusalem are a demonstration of Satan’s vindictive power over those who yield to his control.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 1—Destruction of Jerusalem

GC88 36.1

The Jews had forged their own fetters; they had filled for themselves the cup of vengeance. In the utter destruction that befell them as a nation, and in all the woes that followed them in their dispersion, they were but reaping the harvest which their own hands had sown. Says the prophet, “O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself;” “for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.” [Hosea 13:9; 14:1.] Their sufferings are often represented as a punishment visited upon them by the direct decree of God. It is thus that the great deceiver seeks to conceal his own work. By stubborn rejection of divine love and mercy, the Jews had caused the protection of God to be withdrawn from them, and Satan was permitted to rule them according to his will. The horrible cruelties enacted in the destruction of Jerusalem are a demonstration of Satan’s vindictive power over those who yield to his control.

From Here to Forever

Portents of Disaster

HF 24.3

The Jews had filled for themselves the cup of vengeance. In all the woes that followed in their dispersion, they were reaping the harvest which their own hands had sown. “O Israel, thou has destroyed thyself”; “for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.” Hosea 13:9; 14:1. Their sufferings are often represented as a punishment by the direct decree of God. Thus the great deceiver seeks to conceal his own work. By stubborn rejection of divine love and mercy, the Jews had caused the protection of God to be withdrawn from them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 46, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 46, 1901, par. 8

“When Ephraim spake trembling, he exalted himself in Israel; but when he offended in Baal, he died. ... O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me is thine help. I will be thy king; where is any other that may save thee in all thy cities? and thy judges of whom thou saidst, Give me a king and princes?” [Hosea 13:1, 9, 10.] “O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord; say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously; so will we render the calves of our lips. ... I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely; for mine anger is turned away from him.” [Hosea 14:1, 2, 4.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 17—“Spare it this Year Also”

COL 218.4

Today He invites you: “O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God.... I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely.... I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon.... They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.... From Me is thy fruit found.” Hosea 14:1-8.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 16, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, par. 26

I tell you in the name of the Lord that Israel has sinned. Those handling sacred responsibilities have done strange things. The Lord has not been able to send the dew and showers of His grace; for before He can do this, there must be a change of principles and actions. The Lord longs to see reformatory repentance and good works, that He may send showers of grace to bless His work in every place. He has sent the message, “O Israel, return thou unto the Lord thy God.” [Hosea 14:1.] He does not want to send His judgments. He wants to descend as the gentle showers and refreshing dew, that He may revive the spiritual life of His people.

16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, par. 27

“O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord; say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously, so will we render the calves of our lips. ... I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely; for mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. ... They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn and grow as the vine; the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols; I have heard him, and observed him; I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them; but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Verses 1, 2, 4, 5, 7-9.]

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 23—The Assyrian Captivity

PK 282.3

The prophets continued to protest against these evils and to plead for rightdoing. “Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy,” Hosea urged; “break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord, till He come and rain righteousness upon you.” “Turn thou to thy God: keep mercy and judgment, and wait on thy God continually.” “O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity: ... say unto Him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously.” Hosea 10:12; 12:6; 14:1, 2.

PK 284.1

“Who is wise, and he shall understand these things?
Prudent, and he shall know them?
For the ways of the Lord are right,
And the just shall walk in them:
But the transgressors shall fall therein.” Hosea 14:4-9.

The Kress Collection

Unity Among Believers

KC 112.7

“O Israel thou hast destroyed thyself, but in me is thy help.” “Return unto the Lord thy God, for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity...” (Hosea 14:1-2, 4, 5, 9.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 34, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 31

“O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself, but in me is thy help.” [Verse 9.] “Return unto the Lord thy God, for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn unto the Lord; say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously. ... I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. ... Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them; but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:1, 2, 4, 5, 9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 58, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 58, 1901, par. 27

“O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words,” words of confession and repentance, “and turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously; so will we render the calves of our lips.” [Hosea 14:1, 2.] Yes, we may all say, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. He says, “I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely; for mine anger is turned away from him.” [Verse 4.] Thus God receives even those who have made false paths for their feet and caused the lame to be turned out of the way, if they heed His reproof and correct their course of action. “I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine; the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him and observed him! I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them; but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Verses 5-9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 360, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 360, 1905, par. 12

“The iniquity of Ephraim is bound up, his sin is hid. ... Though he be fruitful among his brethren, an east wind shall come, the wind of the Lord shall come up from the wilderness, and his spring shall become dry, and his fountain shall be dried up; he shall spoil the treasure of all pleasant vessels.” [Hosea 13:12, 15.] The Lord says to you and to all who look upon themselves as superior to their brethren, “Return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord.” [Hosea 14:1, 2.]

20LtMs, Lt 360, 1905, par. 13

“O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto Him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. Asshur shall not save us, we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods: for in Thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for Mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine: the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him, and observed him: I am like a green fir tree. From Me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Verses 1-9.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

His Long-Suffering Mercy

8T 277.3

“O Israel, return unto Jehovah thy God;
For thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.
Take with you words,
And return unto Jehovah: say unto Him,
Take away all iniquity, and accept that which is good....
Assyria shall not save us;
We will not ride upon horses;
Neither will we say any more to the work of our hands,
Ye are our gods;
For in Thee the fatherless findeth mercy.” Hosea 14:1-3, A. R. V.

8T 278.1

“Who is wise, that he may understand these things?
Prudent, that he may know them?
For the ways of Jehovah are right,
And the just shall walk in them.” Hosea 14:4-9, A. R. V.

The Review and Herald

February 5, 1914

RH February 5, 1914, par. 5

“Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy,” Hosea pleaded; “break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.” Hosea 10:12. “Turn thou to thy God: keep mercy and judgment, and wait on thy God continually.” Hosea 12:6. “O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity: ... say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: ... for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy.” Hosea 14:1-3.

RH February 5, 1914, par. 9

“Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.” Hosea 14:4-9.

Loma Linda Messages

E. G. White to J. A. Burden, Oct. 11, 1909 (B.-132-’09)

LLM 448.3

The Lord gave to His people advantages which they failed to recognize. “My people,” He says, “are bent to backsliding (790) from Me; though they called them to the Most High, none at all would exalt Him. How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? How shall I deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? how shall I set thee as Zeboim? Mine heart is turned within Me, My repentings are kindled together.” Read also the promises of blessing to Israel on condition of their repentance, recorded in the fourteenth chapter of Hosea. These scriptures were written in times past, but they have also a present-day application.

Testimony for the Church — No. 27

Jeremiah.

T27 42.1

He entreated them to hear the words that he spoke. He cited them to the prophecies of Hosea, Habakuk, Zephaniah, and others whose messages of reproof and warning had been similar to his own. He referred them to events which had transpired in their history in fulfillment of the prophecies of retribution for unrepented sins. Sometimes, as in this case, men had arisen in opposition to the message of God, and predicted peace and prosperity, to quiet the fears of the people, and gain the favor of those in high places. But in every past instance the judgment of God had been visited upon Israel, as the true prophets had indicated. Said he “The prophet which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known that the Lord hath truly sent him.” If Israel chose to run the risk, future developments would effectually decide which was the false prophet.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 82, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 82, 1895, par. 1

Sabbath, October 19, the gathering at the tent was larger than we expected, as in the forenoon meetings were held by our people in the different churches. Hereafter all will come to the ground on Sabbath and Sunday. In the forenoon Brother Corliss spoke from Hosea words that were full of instruction. I spoke in the afternoon from the fourth [chapter] of John: “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” [Verse 10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 149, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 149, 1900, par. 15

We feel that the instruction contained in the fourteenth chapter of Hosea is present truth. The time has come for all who know the truth to close up the ranks. Please read the eleventh chapter of Hosea; it is applicable for this time.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 112, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, par. 19

“I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine: the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him, and observed him: I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:1-9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 132, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 132, 1909, par. 8

The Lord gave to His people advantages which they failed to recognize. “My people,” He says, “are bent to backsliding from Me: though they called them to the Most High, none at all would exalt Him. How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? how shall I deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? how shall I set thee as Zeboim? Mine heart is turned within Me, My repentings are kindled together.” [Verses 7, 8.] Read also the promises of blessing to Israel on condition of their repentance, recorded in the fourteenth chapter of Hosea. These Scriptures were written in times past, but they have also a present-day application.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 211, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 211, 1905, par. 24

“Take with you words, and turn to the Lord. Say unto Him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously. So will we render the calves of our lips. ... I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely; for Mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew upon Israel. He shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as an olive tree. They that dwell under his shadow shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine. The scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him and observed him, I am like a great fir tree: from Me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? For the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them, but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:2, 4-9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 225, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 225, 1905, par. 18

“Take with you words, and turn to the Lord. Say unto Him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously. So will we render Him the calves of our lips. ... I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely; for Mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew upon Israel. He shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as an olive tree. They that dwell under his shadow shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine. The scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him and observed him, I am like a green fir tree; from Me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? For the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them, but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:2, 4-9.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1556—Church Leader to Be Self-Denying and Humble, Not Proud and Dictatorial

21MR 278.5

God has not given you the work of forming a separate party with yourself as leader. God’s people are to be one. They are to blend with one another in their service for God. They are to link up with Christ. [Hosea 14:2-9, quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 19, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 19, 1901, par. 56

“Take with you words, and turn to the Lord; say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously; so will we render the calves of our lips. Asshur shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses; neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods; for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding; I will love them freely; for mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine; the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him, and observed him; I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them; but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:2-9.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Press Your Case, March 20

AG 87.1

I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely. Hosea 14:4.

Prayer

Chapter 28—Prayer in the Last Days

Pr 276.3

All who enter the City of God will enter through the strait gate—by agonizing effort; for “there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth.” Revelation 21:27. But none who have fallen need give up to despair. Aged men, once honored of God, may have defiled their souls, sacrificing virtue on the altar of lust; but if they repent, forsake sin, and turn to God, there is still hope for them. He who declares, “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life,” also gives the invitation, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Revelation 2:10; Isaiah 55:7. God hates sin, but He loves the sinner. “I will heal their backsliding,” He declares; “I will love them freely.” Hosea 14:4.—(Prophets and Kings, 83, 84.)

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 5—Solomon’s Repentance

PK 84.1

All who enter the City of God will enter through the strait gate—by agonizing effort; for “there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth.” Revelation 21:27. But none who have fallen need give up to despair. Aged men, once honored of God, may have defiled their souls, sacrificing virtue on the altar of lust; but if they repent, forsake sin, and turn to God, there is still hope for them. He who declares, “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life,” also gives the invitation, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Revelation 2:10; Isaiah 55:7. God hates sin, but He loves the sinner. “I will heal their backsliding,” He declares; “I will love them freely.” Hosea 14:4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 71, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 71, 1895, par. 25

God Himself has seen your indifference, your careless disregard for those who are ready to die. He has acted the part of a true shepherd. He has gone after the lost sheep, and has spoken to the distressed soul, saying, “Return unto me, and I will return unto you.” [Malachi 3:7.] “I will heal their backslidings, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.” [Hosea 14:4.] All heaven rejoices in the finding of the lost sheep. But instead of partaking of this spirit, how many have manifested the spirit of the elder brother in the parable of the return of the prodigal son.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 123, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 123, 1897, par. 7

You need the changes which will mold the life after the divine Pattern. Christ has said of you, “Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not.” [Luke 22:31, 32.] Brother Philip Wessels, the Lord is inviting you to come unto Him. He says, “Return unto me, and I will return unto you.” [Malachi 3:7.] He will heal all your backslidings; He will love you freely. [Hosea 14:4.] Now is our day of test and trial. The precious hours are passing away. There is no place of safety or repose or justification in the transgression of the law of God. He demands nothing short of absolute surrender to Him.

From Splendor to Shadow

Hosea’s Gracious Appeals

SS 152.4

“I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely,” the Lord declared. “I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily ... . They that dwell under His shadow shall return ... . For the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.” Hosea 14:4-9.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 124, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 124, 1905, par. 5

Purity of character will be distinctly revealed by all who truly follow Christ. In them will be seen the fulfilment of God’s promise: “I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon.” [Hosea 14:5.] The psalmist thus describes the beauty and growth of the Christian: “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree; he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; to show that the Lord is upright: He is my Rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.” [Psalm 92:12-15.]

With God at Dawn

Strength and Beauty of Character, June 13

WGD 166.1

I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. Hosea 14:5, 6.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 3—“First the Blade, Then the Ear”

COL 66.1

The plant grows by receiving that which God has provided to sustain its life. It sends down its roots into the earth. It drinks in the sunshine, the dew, and the rain. It receives the life-giving properties from the air. So the Christian is to grow by co-operating with the divine agencies. Feeling our helplessness, we are to improve all the opportunities granted us to gain a fuller experience. As the plant takes root in the soil, so we are to take deep root in Christ. As the plant receives the sunshine, the dew, and the rain, we are to open our hearts to the Holy Spirit. The work is to be done “not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 4:6. If we keep our minds stayed upon Christ, He will come unto us “as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. As the Sun of Righteousness, He will arise upon us “with healing in His wings.” Malachi 4:2. We shall “grow as the lily.” We shall “revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.” Hosea 14:5, 7. By constantly relying upon Christ as our personal Saviour, we shall grow up into Him in all things who is our head.

Education

Sowing in Faith

Ed 106.1

The plant grows by receiving that which God has provided to sustain its life. So spiritual growth is attained through co-operation with divine agencies. As the plant takes root in the soil, so we are to take root in Christ. As the plant receives the sunshine, the dew, and the rain, so are we to receive the Holy Spirit. If our hearts are stayed upon Christ, He will come unto us “as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” As the Sun of Righteousness, He will arise upon us “with healing in His wings.” We shall “grow as the lily.” We “shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.” Hosea 6:3; Malachi 4:2; Hosea 14:5, 7.

God’s Amazing Grace

Like Dew, Rain, and Sunshine, July 8

AG 197.1

I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. Hosea 14:5.

AG 197.7

The plant grows by receiving that which God has provided to sustain its life. So spiritual growth is attained through cooperation with divine agencies. As the plant takes root in the soil, so we are to take root in Christ. As the plant receives the sunshine, the dew, and the rain, so we are to receive the Holy Spirit. If our hearts are stayed upon Christ, He will come unto us “as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” As the Sun of righteousness, He will arise upon us “with healing in His wings.” We shall “grow as the lily.” We shall “revive as the corn, and grow as the vine” (Hosea 6:3; Malachi 4:2; Hosea 14:5, 7).20Education, 104-106.

Lift Him Up

Growth Comes From God, February 25

LHU 70.1

They shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine. Hosea 14:7.

LHU 70.4

As with life, so it is with growth. It is God who brings the bud to bloom and the flower to fruit. It is by His power that the seed develops, “first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear” (Mark 4:28). And the prophet Hosea says of Israel, that “he shall grow as the lily” (Hosea 14:5). “They shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine” (verse 7). And Jesus bids us “consider the lilies how they grow” (Luke 12:27). The plants and flowers grow not by their own care or anxiety or effort, but by receiving that which God has furnished to minister to their life. The child cannot, by any anxiety or power of its own, add to its stature. No more can you, by anxiety or effort of yourself, secure spiritual growth. The plant, the child, grows by receiving from its surroundings that which ministers to its life—air, sunshine, and food. What these gifts of nature are to animal and plant, such is Christ to those who trust in Him....

Steps to Christ

Chapter 8—Growing Up Into Christ

SC 67.3

As with life, so it is with growth. It is God who brings the bud to bloom and the flower to fruit. It is by His power that the seed develops, “first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.” Mark 4:28. And the prophet Hosea says of Israel, that “he shall grow as the lily.” “They shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.” Hosea 14:5, 7. And Jesus bids us “consider the lilies how they grow.” Luke 12:27. The plants and flowers grow not by their own care or anxiety or effort, but by receiving that which God has furnished to minister to their life. The child cannot, by any anxiety or power of its own, add to its stature. No more can you, by anxiety or effort of yourself, secure spiritual growth. The plant, the child, grows by receiving from its surroundings that which ministers to its life—air, sunshine, and food. What these gifts of nature are to animal and plant, such is Christ to those who trust in Him. He is their “everlasting light,” “a sun and shield.” Isaiah 60:19; Psalm 84:11. He shall be as “the dew unto Israel.” “He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass.” Hosea 14:5; Psalm 72:6. He is the living water, “the Bread of God ... which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” John 6:33.

The Faith I Live By

Changed by Beholding, May 24

FLB 150.4

If we keep our minds stayed upon Christ, He will come unto us “as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. As the Sun of Righteousness, He will arise upon us “with healing in his wings.” Malachi 4:2. We shall “grow as the lily.” We shall “revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.” Hosea 14:5, 7. By constantly relying upon Christ as our personal Saviour, we shall grow up into Him in all things who is our head.78Christ’s Object Lessons, 67.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 70a, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 70a, 1897, par. 7

“Many shall be purified and made white and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand.” [Daniel 12:10.] “I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine; the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. ... Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them; but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:5-7, 9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 7, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 7, 1891, par. 60

“I will be as the dew unto Israel: and he shall grow up as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine; the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him, and observed him: I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:5-9.] “Blessed is everyone that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labor of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. ... The Lord shall bless thee out of Zion: and thou shalt see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life.” [Psalm 128:1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 41, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 41, 1897, par. 31

“Many shall be purified, and made white and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand.” [Daniel 12:10.] “I will be as the dew unto Israel; He shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as the Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall receive as the corn, and grow as the vine; the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him, and observed him; I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them; but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:5-9.]

Prophets and Kings

Section 2—Prophets of the Northern Kingdom

“Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? Prudent, and he shall know them? For the ways of the Lord are right, And the just shall walk in them: But the transgressors shall fall therein.” Hosea 14:9.

Reflecting Christ

Teach Children to Be Workers Together With God, June 23

RC 188.1

The ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them. Hosea 14:9.

Sons and Daughters of God

The Cross and the Law, August 21

SD 240.1

Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein. Hosea 14:9.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 80, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 80, 1897, par. 17

I might go to much larger lengths in these matters, but what will it amount to? Those who have entered into the scheming principles, those who have co-operated in this work of injustice, have so confused their senses that righteous principles are not discerned. Would it not be wise to clear the King’s highway, that the Lord may remove His displeasure for the moral degeneracy of His work? Holy things are brought down to a common level. The cause of truth has been dishonored. Men greedy of gain have brought their evil propensities into the work of God. They have resorted to any means that they might obtain what they wanted. “Who is wise? and he shall understand these things; prudent? and he shall know them; for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them; but the transgressors shall fall.” [Hosea 14:9.]