Only God's Judgment Matters

Hosea 10:1

Israel is an empty vine, he bringeth forth fruit unto himself: according to the multitude of his fruit he hath increased the altars; according to the goodness of his land they have made goodly images.

Israel is said here to be like a vine that is both empty and fruitful. The conflict between the two is resolved in God's judgment that they bring fruit unto themselves. They had multiplied in numbers and increased their altars. Houses of worship were springing up everywhere in Israel.

·       They could be proud of themselves

·       They were reaching the masses

Business was booming in the spiritual world of Israel. The fruits of their religion were plentiful and evident.

But they were “an empty vine;” fruitless in the eyes of God.

And it is His eyes that matter.

We must never forget that all that is said and done in this life is meaningless unless it passes the muster of God's judgment.