Good in the Wildest Sense

O. T. #2037 "Good in the Wildest Sense"

Oct. 1, 2021

Hosea 3-Part 3

Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and shall fear the LORD and His goodness in the later days. (verse 5)

LET IT GLOW

The northern kingdom of Israel had rebelled against David's dynasty and had taken Jeroboam as their king. (1Kings 12-13) They reverted back to worshiping idols of gold. So God had to discipline them by moving Assyria to conquer them. Without repentance of sins, agreeing with God against us, there is judgment ahead. How much better it is to have His love and blessings.

Gomer would spend a period of time with Hosea on probation. She was to prove her faithfulness to him, and he to her during the period. After she truly responded to his gracious love, Hosea would restore her completely as his wife.

What was required of the straying Israelites?

• They must return (turn back; to retreat; fetch home again; retrieve)to the LORD. (22 times it is used in this book)
• They must seek [to search out (in worship or prayer)] the LORD their God and their King Jesus who was of the line of David and God's Son, the Messiah.
• They shall fear (stand in awe) of the LORD and His goodness (good in the wildest sense).

Israel will turn back to worshiping God instead of idols. They will worship and pray to Him alone. Also, they will stand in awe of the things He does for them and who He is. Finally, they will experience God's goodness in the wildest sense, beyond all their dreams. This will happen during the Millennial reign of Jesus Christ as King.

Are you ready?

LET IT GROW

When we return in real repentance of sins, then God's blessing are experienced once again. God's miraculous love and grace call all straying believers and lost unbelievers to turn to Him for mercy and salvation.

LET IT GO

Lord God Almighty, we need Your love, grace, and mercy.

Please forgive us of our sins and change our hearts.

May we always stand in awe of You, the One and Only God.

Open our eyes to see Your goodness in the wildest sense.

Thank You Father.