Hosea 14:2 Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say to him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously… It pleased the Lord to draw up for them a form of prayer, which He puts into their mouths, and with which He sends them, that they might present themselves before Him at His throne and mercy-seat, and there repeat it. I. THE CONNECTION OF THESE WORDS WITH THE FORMER, Israel is fallen by her iniquity. -What is requisite in this case? Most assuredly, a return to the Lord. But Israel might say, "I know not how to return." To prevent despairing thoughts the Lord gives suitable words for those who would return but hardly know how to do so. The words are cogent and most particular, and exactly suited unto and expressive of the grace which those persons stood in need of. II. OPEN AND EXPLAIN THE EXPRESSIONS MADE USE OF IN THIS PRAYER. They contain for substance the whole grace and gracious design of the everlasting Gospel. If all iniquity were not taken away there could be no expectation of being received graciously, therefore the order, propriety, and connection of these words, with the vast subject and importance of them. III. THE SUITABLENESS OF THEM TO SUCH AS ARE IN A STATE OF BACKSLIDING, OR ARE ON THE VERGE OF THE SAME. There is a continual change, a flux and reflux, in the frames, temper, cases, and feelings of the people of God. None are safe, one single moment, but as they are kept by the power of God. IV. THE MOST GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS OF THESE SUPPLIANTS. "We will render the calves of our lips." When the Lord is pleased to overcome our. minds by the manifestations of His pardoning mercy, we cannot but open our mouth, and with our lips shew forth His glorious praise. (Samuel Eyles Pierce.) Parallel Verses KJV: 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. |
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