1. A people unfaithful in their hearts (1-7)

Hosea accused Ephraim of having a "spirit of prostitution" in their hearts. It means they were ready to forsake God's word at any moment for some earthly benefit; they did not really see their sin as sin. As long as this spirit remained, God would not let himself be found by them. When our heart is crooked with unrepented sin, we cannot be made right with God through empty words or superficial religious expressions. We need a change in our inner selves.

2. Only God can heal (8-15)

Hosea made an announcement of judgment against Ephraim, because they were intent on pursuing idols. When Ephraim realized they were in trouble, they turned to the king of Assyria instead of the Lord for help. Hosea proclaimed that this earthly power could not heal them. In his judgment God would be like a devouring lion to Ephraim. The nation was so far gone that only misery would help them earnestly turn to the Lord.