“Come, let us return to the Lord. He has torn us to pieces but He will heal us; He has injured us but He will bind up our wounds.” Hosea 6:1
Throughout the book of Hosea, there are many interesting lessons to be learned. However, this verse from the end of the book illustrates the healing and restoration that is possible through God and God alone, the ultimate takeaway from the book. If you return to God, he will revive and restore you.
As the book begins, Hosea is called by God to marry a prostitute. Even after their marriage and covenant, Hosea’s wife continues to work as a prostitute. She is eventually sold in slavery, forcing Hosea to buy her back. Time and time again, Hosea demonstrates unconditional love to his wife, illustrating the unconditional love God has for us, his children. No matter how many times his wife returns to prostitution, Hosea takes and fights for her back.
Have you ever felt unworthy of the Lord’s love? Have you ever sinned in such a way that has torn you to pieces, or wounded you in such a way that God couldn’t restore you? Don’t fall prey to Satan’s lies. The Lord is capable of all restoration, if only you will return to him. No matter how broken you may feel, how wounded your heart or soul may be, God will bring you healing. There is no limit to his love. There is no sin he cannot forgive. And not only can he forgive, he can redeem. He can make beautiful things out of the darkest moments of our lives.
Don’t be afraid to run to him. Don’t be ashamed to go back to him. He will always be waiting for you with open arms. His forgiveness has no expiration and his love has no end. Return home to him, He’s waiting for you.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for the example of Hosea. Thank you for the great love that he showed, but also the even greater love that you were showing us through his example. I pray that we will never believe the lie that we can’t come back to you, that we’re too far gone, that you couldn’t love us. Stir our hearts to run back to you.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
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