Is it safe to thaw my meat out in hot water? Its already a little thawed its been sitting out for 4 hours.

Actually it's a myth that says you can't use hot water. You can. I always have. Also have asked 2 doctors about this. But since it's been sitting out you should thaw it the rest of the way out in the microwave using the defrost setting and cook it immediately after.

I thaw on the counter or hot water depending on how soon I need it

Ive been thawing meat in hot water for years inside the packaging. Wtf is the difference? Lol

It's not safe to thaw meat out on the counter, it should be thawed in cold water, in the fridge or in the microwave. Meat shouldn't be sitting out for more than 2 hours