Definition: O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me [is] thine help.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Hosea 13:9. It's a really powerful and poignant verse from the book of Hosea, which is part of the Old Testament and focuses on Hosea, the husband of Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that Israel has been acting very badly – they’ve been destructive and selfish – and God is offering them help to turn around. It's a call for repentance and renewal. Let’s unpack the parts: “O Israel…” : This is a formal address, like speaking directly to the people of Israel. “…thou hast destroyed thyself…” : This is a harsh statement. It means they've been acting in ways that are harmful to themselves – perhaps through violence, pride, or selfishness. It’s saying they’ve caused damage to their own lives and relationships. “…but in me [is] thine help.” : This is the crucial part. The verse changes from a negative statement to a positive one. It means God is offering them help – forgiveness, redemption, and a chance to start over. The word “is” here is key - it's not just that God is helping, but specifically that he is offering this help. What does this mean practically? It’s a message of hope for Israel, because it suggests God sees their flaws and wants to rescue them from their destructive path. It’s about a chance to be reconciled with God and rebuild themselves. It's a plea for repentance – acknowledging the wrongdoings and seeking forgiveness. Context is Important: Hosea 13 was written during a time of intense conflict between Israel and Judah. The verse highlights the seriousness of their actions and emphasizes that God is actively intervening to restore them. It’s a reminder that even when things seem bad, there's always a chance for change and redemption. In short: This verse is a message of forgiveness and opportunity offered by God to Israel, urging them to repent and rebuild themselves. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Hosea? Discuss the significance of this verse in the context of the Old Testament?