In this last chapter of Hosea the people of God are once again encouraged to repent. They must admit the full reality of their sin so that God might fully cleanse and restore them into a right relationship with him. How can Israel be sure that God will do this? It's because God is a God of mercy (Hosea 14:3). Israel does not deserve any mercy from God. But God freely chooses to show mercy and love towards them (Hosea 14:4). He will be like a tree constantly giving them refreshing, life sustaining fruit.
We find similar themes and wording in the New Testament. Peter describes how through the death of Jesus our sins are taken away, we are healed, and we are restored to God (1 Peter 2:24-25). So we see that God is in the business of not just restoring sinful Israel but a sinful world. He sent Jesus to die on the cross so that this might be possible. Anyone who repents from their sin and turns to God by believing in Jesus will be fully restored and renewed.
Repentance and restoration. What do those words mean to you? How has Jesus and his death on the cross brought about both repentance and restoration in your own life? And what are your final thoughts on the book of Hosea?
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