Yesterday we concluded our sermon series through the book of Hosea. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in this book, and if I had to summarize it, I would say. We will never be able to say, “God didn’t give me a chance to come home.”
This series reminded me of the people who have come and gone in my life. We have had to say goodbye to some friends because life moved them on, and those are always sad to see, but our friendship remains. Unfortunately, we have watched others move away from God’s will. There are warnings throughout the scriptures to those who turn their backs on God, and there were plenty of warnings to the children of Israel as Hosea Preached.
The sad part is the problem remains the same as in Hosea’s day. The problem in every situation, and as Hosea preached, he reminded the people they had forgotten God. Understanding that a life away from God will always end in disaster is imperative.
My heart breaks for those we have loved and sacrificed for in our ministry, only to watch their lives unravel as they forget about the goodness of God. I also understand that I am not immune from the same disasters that befell David and many others. All it takes is a moment in the flesh; my testimony forever could be destroyed.
While David was the main reason a terrible sword of affliction came upon his family, David also returned to the Lord. Psalm 51 has often been one of my favorite Psalms to quote, but it gives you insight into what happens to a Christian who has allowed sin to have a place in their life. The one that stands out the most is the loss of Joy.
Christians who have forgotten God and those who have allowed sin to have a place in their lives are among the world’s most miserable people. That new promotion you got, all those possessions you have, and even your family will never bring you joy because it has caused you to abandon God.
Hosea concluded in chapter 14 with a promise from God to whose will return to Him, “I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.” (14:3) I cannot comprehend a Christian who continues live away from God.
The good news, as we have seen throughout the book of Hosea, is that it doesn’t have to be this way. So let me encourage you today, Christian; maybe your relationship with God has been stagnant, but we don’t have to continue to live a life separated from God. God wants to receive you back. I’ll end by quoting my favorite verse from the book of Hosea, “Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.” (10:12)