Hosea 5:15 Meaning and Explanation
“I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →God will withdraw until His people own their guilt and earnestly seek Him, which affliction will finally lead them to do.
What Does Hosea 5:15 Mean?
The chapter closes with the LORD's purpose laid bare. He will go and return to my place, withdrawing His felt presence, but only till they acknowledge their offence and seek my face. The very affliction He allows is meant to turn them, for in their affliction they will seek me early, that is, earnestly and at last. Even the withdrawal is aimed at restoration.
Here the heart of God shows through the judgment. He does not leave forever; He waits for the turning that suffering can finally awaken. Owning our guilt and seeking His face is the doorway home, and He has thrown that door wide in Christ, who promises that all who seek will find. What looks like absence is the patience of a Father standing ready, longing to be sought, so that He may run to meet the returning child.
Hosea 5:15 in the Original Language
panim (פָּנִים), 'face' -- God's presence itself, the favor of being before Him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hosea 5:15
What does Hosea 5:15 mean?
God will withdraw until His people own their guilt and earnestly seek Him, which affliction will finally lead them to do.