God commanded Hosea to show Gomer love. Hosea was to acknowledge her sin of adultery, but show her love like God showed Israel love. She had stooped so low that she had found herself joined to another man that didn't really love her. Gomer had no claim on Hosea because of her acts of adultery. He could have left her in her situation, but he was obedient to God.
Hosea paid 15 shekels of silver to buy back his wife. He could have claimed her as his wife and took her, but the money was a sacrifice of love. It gave her worth like when Jesus gave His life for us (it gave us worth). When Hosea had Gomer back, he told her not to live like she had again. He promised her a long life and to remain faithful. He would not withhold sex from her once she was ready to resume the marriage faithfully. He was willing to wait.
Israel needed to live without a king or other gods. When the nation of Israel made the steps to restore faithfulness to God it would be like the days when David was king: repentance and faith. They would be able to see God's love and be in awe. It is an experience some never allow themselves to have. To be loved by God is to live in goodness because you know it is forever. God is willing to wait for you, but not forever.
Hosea 3
No comments:
Post a Comment
This Blog is open for discussion. Please share your thoughts.