The mood quickly changes. This gentle, tender Father now becomes furious at His son's repeated rejection: ″Will they not return to Egypt and will not Assyria rule over them because they refuse to repent? A sword will flash in their cities; it will devour their false prophets and put an end to their plans″ (Hosea 11:5-6).

God had lavished His love on Israel, but all He got in return was the cold shoulder. It was time she learned how that felt. He had found her in Egypt, and if she didn't want Him, He would send her back there. She didn't want His love, so He would let her feel the sword instead.

The problem was deep-rooted: ″My people are determined to turn from me″ (v. 7). Now God would not come running when Israel called out to Him in her trouble. It was time for Him to withdraw and to let her realise just where her choices would lead her. ″Even though they call me God Most High, I will by no means exalt them″ (v. 7).

These are no empty words. God's anger is real, and in just a few years (722 BC), Israel would be invaded by Assyria and the people carted off into slavery. God is a devoted Father, but that does not mean He is a pushover. In the end, He will punish all who spurn His generous love.

We see that there is a legitimate place for anger. For example, when people are abused and ill treated, we ought to be furious. However, in our anger we must not sin (Psalm 4:4); neither should we greet injustice with disinterest.

We must take God's anger seriously too. God loved Israel, but that didn't stop Him from sending Assyria to discipline her. God loves the whole world, but He still warns us of hell. Anger isn't the opposite of love; it actually arises from it. God generously offers to make us His children, just as He did with Israel, but if we continually rebuff and scorn His love, He will not simply shrug His shoulders and move on. He will be angry.

Heavenly Father, I thank you for caring enough about me and your world to get angry when we reject you. Help me to never spurn your love. In Jesus' name, amen.