The Lord said to me, "Go show your
love to your wife again, though she is loved by another and is an adulteress.
Love her as the Lord loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and
love the sacred raisin cakes. " 3:1
The book of Hosea is a love story - real,
tragic and true. Transcending the tale of young man and wife, it tells of God's
love for his people and the response of his "bride." A covenant had been made
and God had been faithful. His love was steadfast and his commitment unbroken.
But Israel, like Gomer, was adulterous and unfaithful, spurning God's love and
turning instead to false gods. Then after warning of judgment, God reaffirmed
his love and offered reconciliation. His love and mercy were overflowing, but
justice would be served.
The book begins with God's marriage
instructions to Hosea. After Hosea's marriage, children were born, and each
given a name signifying a divine message (chapter 1). Then, as predicted, Gomer
left Hosea to pursue her lusts (chapter 2). But Hosea (whose name means
"salvation") found her, redeemed her, and brought her home again, fully
reconciled (chapter 3). Images of God's love, judgment, grace and mercy were
woven into their relationship. Next, God outlined his case against the people
of Israel -- their sins would ultimately cause their destruction (chapters 4; 6;
7; 12) and would rouse his anger, resulting in punishment (chapters 5; 8-10; 12;
13). But even in the midst of Israel's immorality, God was merciful and offered
hope, expressing his infinite love for his people (chapter 11) and the fact that
their repentance would bring about blessing (chapter 14).
The book of Hosea dramatically portrays our God's constant and persistent love. As you read this book, watch the prophet submit himself willingly to his Lord's direction; grieve with him over the unfaithfulness of his wife and his people; and hear the clear warning of judgment. Then reaffirm your commitment to being God's person, faithful in your love and true to your vows.
Keep reading -- 182 days left!
All footnotes taken from the Life Application Study Bible, NIV
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