Hosea 4:10
“They will eat, but not have enough; They will play the prostitute, but not increase, Because they gave up devoting themselves to the LORD.”
This is is the misery that happens when one forsakes the Lord. God gives all the general blessing of life. However, because we are all lost without Christ, God seeks to draw all to Himself. This discontent that’s present is actually a blessing. It’s meant to lead all to seek God for help.
Isaiah 28:20 shares a similar verse, “Indeed, the bed is too short to stretch out on, and the blanket too small to wrap around you.” This person can’t get comfortable. A good night’s sleep cannot be had.
This isn’t a big problem. Just a needling annoyance. Life is generally good. Just a pebble in the shoe that can’t be fixed. There is much goodness in life, but it’s not appreciated.
Romans 1:21 tells us how this happens, “For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts.” They didn’t want God, nor did they give Him thanks. This is their right. The problem is that all good things come from God. So, when they reject Him, they are distancing themselves. It’s like saying “I hate the sun”, so they go to the shade and find themselves cold. Because they don’t want God, they are limiting the flow of His blessing. They are harming themselves. They are creating their own problems.
They don’t know it, but their discontent is a blessing. Why, because it’s meant to drive them back to God. It works for some. The pebble in the shoe drives them to the Lord and He does His repairs. The angels rejoice and a prodigal come home.
Others don’t and they seek other avenues to minimize their annoyance. Hobbies, past times, sex, drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately, those aren’t a permanent fix. They would probably make things worse.
Blessed are those that fear Him. Abundant life lies in their path, a full cup, one that overflows. Another verse says it’s joy unspeakable and full of glory.
We have a loving God who wants to love us and bless us. Over and over and over again. Thank You for the annoyances. Thank You for Your drawing power.