This is a mysterious verse. There’s no getting around it. It was probably mysterious in the time when the prophet Hosea spoke it as well, although maybe a little more relatable.
After much contemplation, here’s what I’m hearing God tell me: the “unplowed ground” is important to understanding His point.
At a farm, unplowed ground is kind of a waste, I would think. Any seeds sown there probably won’t germinate or thrive. The surface is either too hard or too crowded with weeds.
God is telling me to examine my heart for any unplowed ground. What areas of my life have I protected from the upheaval of righteous examination? Where have I let non-Biblical ideas and values thrive and prosper?
This is hard and will take even more contemplation and prayer. But a couple of things come easily to mind: the types of TV shows I watch and the amount of time I spend watching said TV shows. I don’t want to plow these areas over. I’ve put a fence around these areas with a sign saying “Keep Out” to God. They are mine! My time to relax and unwind and stay current with my culture. So many rationalizations.
Oh dear. Is it time to put a yoke on my neck, tear down that fence, and plow under this part of my life? Only then will God rain down righteousness and faithful love, according to today’s verse.
Are there other fenced-off corners of my life in need of a good plowing under?
Dear God,
This is a hard lesson for me. There are some things a have tucked away for myself thinking you can’t see them. But I know that you can. Forgive me for thinking I know better. I know you love me and want the BEST for me. Teach me to trust you and show me how to plow the old, hard, weed-clotted soil of my heart.
CamDevo 