Hosea 3

There are a number of important truths we can learn from these first three chapters of Hosea. First, no matter how low we sink, God wants to lift us up and restore us to Him— self; there is always a second chance—if we will take it.

Second, adultery should not be considered automatic grounds for divorce; it is, however, “grounds” for forgiveness. One should make every effort to seek reconciliation; even if the efforts fail, one should continue to love and forgive the unfaithful spouse.

Third, when we love the world and make it an “idol” in our lives, we are committing spiritual adultery, just as surely as ancient Israel did (1 John 2:15–17). Idolatry takes many forms, and it is as big a problem today as it ever was—even for Christians.¹³

Fourth, Hosea reveals to us the heart of God. All SIN breaks God’s heart, but idolatry—spiritual adultery—breaks it most of all. This is especially true when those whom God has chosen, whom God has especially blessed, turn away from Him to serve another master (Matthew 6:24).

Think about God. He is more than a Creator, more than a King, more than a Judge; He is a Husband, a Father—our Father. He has created us not simply to rule over us but to have fellowship with us, to love us as a that is true for God as well. Sin not only husband loves his wife. The greatest pain of breaks God’s law but it also breaks His all is to be rejected by the one you love, and heart. Jesus proved this on the cross.