“ The Old Testament book of Hosea is the story of God’s faithful love for His unfaithful people. In what seems strange to us, the Lord commanded Hosea to marry a woman who would break her marriage vows and bring grief to him (Hosea 1:2-3). After she deserted Hosea for other men, the Lord told him to take her back—a picture of “the love of the Lord for the children of Israel, who look to other gods” (3:1). Even when we have “plowed wickedness” and “reaped iniquity” (10:13), God does not stop loving us. Whatever our situation today, we can turn to the Lord and find forgiveness to make a new start. His love never fails!”
Doesn’t that seem odd that God would ask Hosea to suffer through the heartache of that relationship for God to make His point? When we choose to submit to our old nature and abandon God, we are , metaphorically, Hosea’s wife. God has given us a new life and yet we choose to pursue another one. We forsake our ‘Love’ for another. If you are married, would you say that you love your husband or wife with all of your heart? Or is there someone else that has edged in … someone else that you think about … someone else that you would like to be with? Are you thinking .. ‘Of course not!’ ? Good.
But almost like a moth to a flame, we are drawn away from God. ‘ Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.’ (James 1:13-15)
Yet, like Hosea, God shows grace and mercy toward us. Sin is without consequence, but His forgiveness is sure. Have you been drawn away in some aspect of your life? God is waiting with open arms … Does someone you know need to hear about God’s unfailing love? Why don’t you tell them.
‘Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.’ (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
That is what we call being a witness … That what fulfilling the second greatest commandment .. love others … is all about …
Bondye Beni Ou (God Bless You)
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