Hosea 12:1-8 - God's Case Against Jacob's Heirs

1 Ephraim feeds on wind, and follows after the east wind: he daily increases lies and desolation; and they do make a covenant with the Assyrians, and oil is carried into Egypt.

2 The LORD has also a controversy with Judah, and will punish Jacob according to his ways; according to his deeds will he recompense him. 3 He took his brother by the heel in the womb, and by his strength he had power with God: 4 Yea, he had power over the angel, and prevailed: he wept, and made supplication unto him: he found him in Bethel, and there he spoke with us; 5 Even the LORD God of hosts; the LORD is his memorial name. 6 Therefore turn you to your God: keep mercy and judgment, and wait on your God continually.

7 He is a merchant, the balances of deceit are in his hand: he loves to oppress. 8 And Ephraim said, Yet I have become rich, I have found myself wealth: in all my labors they shall find no iniquity in me that is sin.