Day 245

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A Depiction of Hosea Knowing the Love of God

Hosea Introduction

Hosea prophesies to a corrupt and idolatrous Israel from the pulpit of his own experience. Instructed by God to marry the harlot Gomer, Hosea finds mirrored in his domestic life an accurate portrayal of the unfaithfulness of God's people. Drawing a striking parallel from his marriage, Hosea carries God's powerful message to the streets: the wickedness of Israel will bring swift tragedy and certain calamity. But though God's love must discipline, it will surely restore.

Hosea is the prophet who outlived his audience according to 1:1. Hosea ministered during the reigns of four kings in Judah (southern kingdom). Hosea's long career spanned the reigns of the six kings of Israel (northern kingdom), making him one the few "Ten-King Prophets" in the Bible.

Scripture

September 1—Hosea 1-3: A Prophetic Vision

Observation

True to the tradition of prophets before him, Hosea illustrates God's messages in strikingly unforgettable ways. Obedient of God's command, he marries a prostitute named Gomer as a shocking indictment upon idolatrous Israel (1:2). Three children are born whose names carry overtones of God's impending judgment: Jezreel ("God scatters"), Lo-ruhamah ("not pitied") and Lo-ammi ("not my people"). When Gomer betrays Hosea's love by deserting him for other men, the prophet seeks her out, pays a high price to redeem her, disciplines her, then reaffirms his love for her. Thus the prophet models God's loving chastisement and total acceptance of his people. 

Application

Love is truly a "many-splendored" and often mistaken thing.

There's Because Love: "I love you because you're beautiful, because you're talented, because you make me feel special."

There's When Love: "I love you when you're good, when you're faithful, when you're obedient."

There's If Love: "I'll love you if you please me, if you don't hurt me, if you measure up to my expectations."

And then there's God's Love. He doesn't say, "I love you because," or "when," or "if." Rather, God simply says, I love you, period." No conditions. No "fine print." No timetable.

In the passage you'll read today, which kind of love does Hosea show toward Gomer? (Hint: Check 3:1-2.) Which kind does God display to Israel? (Hint: Look at 2:16-23.) Now, can you guess which kind of love God offers you today? (Hint: Turn to Romans 5:8.) And which kind does he expect you to show to those around you? (Hint: Read John 13:34.)

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, we want to be obedient to you with all our heart and soul. For you say in your Word in John 14:21 whoever has your commands and obeys them they are the ones who love you. We love you Lord and we also know that obedience to your Word opens the gate for the gift of your Holy Spirit. Help us to stay on the path of loving you and give us the ability to encourage others by our obedience of love for you. Thank you for loving us and thank you for sending us a helper, the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name! Amen!

The Gift of the Holy Spirit!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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