READING: Hosea 9:1-14:9
I can only rejoice in gratitude as I read the Word this morning. As much as I am generally thankful for God’s love, the Word sometimes just pierces my heart with love again. Today’s one of those days.
God’s people continually rebelled against Him. They chased after other gods. They built other altars. They offered other sacrifices. They followed other rules. In fact, God said, “My people are bent on turning from me” (Hos 11:7). Their history was not good.
It’s the next verse, though, that wraps me in love today. God, despite His anger against the people for their rebellion, still asked the question, “How can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I surrender you, Israel?” (Hos 11:8). God’s compassion was stirred, and He held on to His people. Here’s the way one commentator put it: “His affection weighs heavier than Israel’s ingratitude, and he cannot bring himself to renounce his people, even though they renounce him.”*
Wow—that’s love. That’s humbling. That’s encouraging. I trust it will also be convicting if I dare pursue any false gods today.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Are you amazed by God’s love today?
DAILY PRAYER: “Father, I’m deeply grateful that You do not give up on me.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 28:1-29, 2 Kings 17:5, 2 Kings 18:9-12, 2 Kings 17:6-41, Isaiah 1:1-20
*Crossway Bibles. (2008). The ESV Study Bible (p. 1638). Crossway Bibles.
