There is more warning in Hosea chapter five. It talks about them seeking God and not finding Him because He has withdrawn.

Does God go away from His children? Will He hide Himself and not be found? Is there a point of no return?

We see God offer mercy countless times as His people turned back over and over. He was always willing to receive them back.

However, He doesn’t just take them back. The idea of the seeking Savior who leaves the ninety-nine to go after the one who has gone astray and fights until He gets that sheep isn’t exactly Biblical.

That parable is about heaven rejoicing over someone who repents.

There is Scripture about God seeking lost sheep. That is Biblical, but He doesn’t just round up sinners and bring them back into the fold. There must be repentance.

We have one point in this chapter where it says they sought Him but couldn’t find Him. He had removed Himself. However, the chapter ends with God seemingly waiting on them to confess their guilt and earnestly seek Him.

God doesn’t draw near to those who want Him to come near. God draws near to a heart broken over its sin.

James 4:8 is often quoted, but only the first half. If you want God to come near, get clean through confession and repentance. “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

You don’t get to just say, “Come Holy Spirit, You are welcome here.” You make Him welcome by cleaning out the space. Confess, repent. Get rid of the things of sin, self, and the world. God will be happy to fill the space in your life.

Choose Him. Love Him alone. He’s already chosen to love you.