Hosea 8:2 Israel cries out to me, ‘Our God, we acknowledge you!’
My memories of the God I learned about as a child involve Him being very quick-tempered and angry. One of the things that continues to surprise me as I learn more about Him through His word at this point in my life is how loving and compassionate He is. The adjective long-suffering comes to mind.
Hosea 8:3 But Israel has rejected what is good; an enemy will pursue him.
Twenty eight books into the Bible and the Israelites are still lifting up idols and doing what they want, even when spouting lip-service about who God is and His place in their lives. God’s compassion for them—at this point in my life and reading —truly boggles my mind.
Hosea 8:7 They sow the wind and reap the whirlwind.
Lord, Thank You for my adult understanding of Your nature. Thank You for Your fierce love and compassion, especially when I don’t deserve it. Thank You for the reminder that You don’t want us to go through the motions. You want relationship with us. You want us to claim You as our own and keep You at our center. I want these things as well. Help me, Jesus. Amen.
Hosea 8:10 Although they have sold themselves among the nations, I will now gather them together.
Have a blessed day.