Worship

Scripture

Ever since I was a kid, I have been fascinated by the book of Hosea. To my young eyes, this minor prophet had to endure one of the greatest pains ever imaginable. He had to marry someone who did not love him back. Not just that, she was a prostitute sleeping around with other men. In the midst of this, Hosea was called to have an unwavering love, even when Gomer rejected him. It was insane.

The book of Hosea paints a vivid picture of what it is like for God to love Israel while Israel worshiped other gods. In other words, how God loves us as we sell ourselves and our worship to other gods. I can’t even imagine the pain that causes our heavenly father. Despite this, the Lord remains faithful and unwavering in His love, which simply doesn’t make sense. 

Despite the pain and rejection of His people, this is what the Lord says about Gomer, “Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the wilderness and speak tenderly to her.” – Hosea 2:14. When we have drifted away from the Lord and it seems like we’re in a hole so deep we can’t get out of, God will allure us. He won’t force you, that is not His character. He will slowly attract you to the wilderness. The wilderness is simply a place where He can speak tenderly to you. He won’t judge, criticize, or condemn you for your worship of money, status, material possessions, etc. No, He will love you. 

I believe the wilderness is a place of surrender. When you have lost everything you worshiped, just like Gomer did, she realized God was all she had. One thing we can be encouraged by today is that Hosea never left or loved Gomer less. None of our failures or mistakes will ever separate us from the love of God.
Romans 8:39 “Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Prayer

HONOR GOD

Our Maker is intently listening to us, right now. Take a moment and share with Him how thankful you are that He’s with us!

ASK GOD

The Lord renews our mind and purifies our thoughts. What are some thoughts you need to give to the Lord? Share those with Him now.

SUBMIT TO GOD

CLOSING PRAYER

Father, we know you are in control. Thank you that we can trust in your power and your word. Help us to recognize the magicians and illusions of this world that will attempt to distract us from your power. May your Holy Spirit lead us through conviction and encouragement to trust in your holy word.  In Jesus Name, Amen