April 3, 2011

God Loves The Unlovely

(Hosea 1:2-3, Hosea 1:4-9, Hosea 3:1-5)

This week we begin a series of lessons that will emphasize the awesome nature of God's love.  We see His love vividly portrayed in the life, ministry, and marriage of Hosea, His prophet.  Hosea prophesied in the Northern Kingdom of Israel during the last half of the 8th century B.C.

     God's Outrageous Command

We need to develop a deeper appreciation for how much our relationship with God means to Him, and how much it ought to mean to us.  The Lord demonstrates His desire to love us even when we are unattractive. Since He will not accept second place in our lives, He lovingly confronts us about our sins.  Each one of us needs to ask, Have I been unfaithful to God?  If so, how?

     God's Severe Indictment

Research has shown that Christians' lives often are indistinguishable from those of their non-Christian friends.  If God brought a severe indictment against ancient Israel when they strayed from Him, will He not discipline Christians when they wander away from His will?  When God's discipline comes, we can take solace in knowing He loves us and seeks our full restoration.

     God's Miraculous Grace

We can thank God that He gives all of us second chances.  Even so, God is not in the business of offering cheap grace.  Don't ever take His forgiveness for granted.  The Lord appropriately demanded the faithfulness of Israel, and He likewise demands it of us. 

 Read our focal scripture for this week (see above) and also read The Life Word on page 89 in your Learner Guide.  Also, read Discover Deeper Meaning on page 85.