"For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings."
Hosea 6:6 (NRSV)
Prodigal Thoughts: The story of Hosea is certainly an interesting read. He was a prophet in the Old Testament that was told by God to take a prostitute for a wife. Over and over, the wife leaves and is unfaithful. Each time, Hosea goes and finds her and brings her back home. God did this so that the people of Israel would see the dynamic of their relationship with Him. He remains faithful to us, but we are not faithful. Each time we are unfaithful and walk away from Him, He seeks us out to find us in hopes that we will return to Him. Given that bit of background, today’s verse finds God speaking to His people. God isn’t interested in our worship if our love for Him is not in it. He wants us to love Him and to know each of us personally. Just think of that for a moment. The God of the universe, who breathed out the very stars and shaped the land and water we know as earth, wants to love you and for you to love Him in return. Do you realize just how amazing that is? Louie Giglio has a powerful video that is about 40 minutes or so on How Great is our God that touches on this same idea. But think about all of the times you have walked away from God, or the times that He was not the focus of your life and love. Now, focus on the positive aspect. God continues to seek us, even though we have not been faithful. That is just how much our heavenly Father loves us.
Prayer for today: I pray that we would become more aware of the Father’s love for us and that we would be humbled by His heartfelt desire. That we would continue to seek Him diligently so that we constantly learn more about our Father. Lastly, I pray that the love we receive from our amazing God would be shared with others who live in darkness throughout the world.
If you need prayer, please reply and I will pray for you. If you would like to talk about this verse or have questions, I’m always open for your feedback.
God’s grace on you…