Second Kings 17 records the nine-year reign of last king of the northern kingdom of Israel, Hoshea. Hoshea was attacked by Shalmaneser, the king of Assyria, and had to pay tribute. But instead of relying on the Lord, He tried to make an alliance with Egypt. The prophet Hosea (note the similarities in name) predicted that allying with Egypt would lead to the destruction of Israel. Samaria was captured, and all the inhabitants were scattered.
The author of 2 Kings reminds the reader that God had warned Israel over and over to worship only God. God sent his prophets to warn them. They refused to listen.
God is merciful and loving. But, if we continually ignore and disobey the command that He gives us, there will come a time when He will have no choice but to allow us to be destroyed.
May we all respond to the call of God.
