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1 When Israel (he wrestles with God) was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt (land of bondage) I called My son 2 But the more I called Israel, the farther they departed from Me. They sacrificed to the Baals (lord) and burned incense to carved images. 3 It was I who taught Ephraim (the northern kingdom of Israel) to walk, taking them by the arms, but they never realized that it was I who healed them. 4 I led them with cords of kindness, with ropes of love; I lifted the yoke from their necks and bent down to feed them. 5 Will they not return to the land of Egypt (land of bondage) and be ruled by Assyria (a step) because they refused to repent? 6 A sword will flash through their cities; it will destroy the bars of their gates and consume them in their own plans. 7 My people are bent on turning from Me. Though they call to the Most High, He will by no means exalt them. 8 How could I give you up, O Ephraim (doubly fruitful)? How could I surrender you, O Israel (he wrestles with God)? How could I make you like Admah (red earth)? How could I treat you like Zeboiim (gazelles)? My heart is turned within Me; My compassion is stirred! 9 I will not execute the full fury of My anger; I will not destroy Ephraim (doubly fruitful) again. For I am God and not man—the Holy One among you—and I will not come in wrath. Hosea 11:1-9, Berean Annotated Bible. Public domain.
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