Hosea 14:2
Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips.
Hosea 14:2 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Hosea encourages those seeking redemption to approach the Lord with words of repentance and humility. By acknowledging their sins and asking for forgiveness, they can open themselves up to receiving God's grace and mercy. The act of "rendering the calves of our lips" refers to offering praise and thanksgiving to God as a form of worship and gratitude for His forgiveness. In committing to turn to the Lord with words of contrition and devotion, individuals can experience His abundant love and acceptance. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of sincere communication with God and the power of seeking His forgiveness in order to receive His blessings and restoration.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Hosea 14:2, the prophet instructs the people to "take with you words, and turn to the LORD." This implies that words have significance in our relationship with God. The act of verbalizing our desire for God's forgiveness and grace is important; it shows acknowledgment of our sins and a heartfelt desire for reconciliation with Him. The phrase "take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously" reflects the repentant heart seeking mercy and forgiveness from God. The mention of "calves of our lips" is symbolic language, indicating that our words of praise and thanksgiving to God are offerings in themselves, just like the sacrifices of calves in the Old Testament. It emphasizes the importance of sincere and worshipful words in our communication with God. Through this verse, we are reminded of the power of our words in expressing our repentance, seeking God's grace, and giving Him the honor and praise He deserves.
Hosea 14:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
Take with you words, and return unto Jehovah: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and accept that which is good: so will we render [as] bullocks [the offering of] our lips.
World English Bible
Take words with you, and return to Yahweh. Tell him, “Forgive all our sins, and accept that which is good: so we offer our lips like bulls.
Douay-Rheims
Return, O Israel, to the Lord thy God: for thou hast fallen down by thy iniquity.
Geneva Bible (1599)
O Israel, returne vnto the Lord thy God: for thou hast fallen by thine iniquitie.