Restoring the Repentant
Hosea 13:4-6; 14:1-9
Restoring the repentant (Hosea 13:4-5; 14:1-9). Who has not said, “If I could just start over?” It is hard for most adults to comprehend that God offers just such an opportunity. We either do not believe that God really will forgive and let us start anew, or we just do not want to turn from our sins. This new start begins with repentance, which means we must turn from our sinful practices. An unwillingness to repent shows that we are controlled by self-centeredness. A fresh start is possible, but repentance is the only way.
The need for repentance (Hosea 13:4-6). God said that Israel would be punished for idolatry. The people had trusted and followed other gods. He reminded them that He is the God who brought them out of Egypt and cared for them through it all, and that there is no other Savior.
God had said from the beginning, “No other gods.” God’s charge was that they were so well cared for that they became self-satisfied and proud. God claims to be Israel’s only Savior, and He will share that distinction with no one. Verse 6 contains the final verdict, “They forgot Me.” We need to search ourselves and ask, Could we forget God or be guilty of idolatry? What would idolatry look like today?
Call to repentance (Hosea 14:1-3). One more time, God calls for repentance, and, as always, He includes the promise of blessing. God calls for the people of Israel to repent, ask for cleansing and acknowledge that God is their only hope and salvation. Hosea was bringing love’s final appeal to a people standing on the brink of judgment and possible extinction. When we sin, God encourages us to come to Him with sincere hearts and prayers of repentance.
Results of repentance (Hosea 14:4-8). Look at what God promises His repentant people. He promises spiritual healing, love and renewal. This is not a maybe; it is a certainty, if repentance is sincere. God will lovingly forgive, heal the damage caused by sin, restore us to a right relationship with Him, and give us a fresh start. God says He will make Israel new. The old was ugly, impure, weak and unstable. The new would be noted for its beauty, purity, strength and fidelity. As you read these verses, take them personally, because God means them for you.
Wisdom of repentance (Hosea 14:9). Hosea concludes his prophecy by saying that it is wise to understand and act on these teachings. When we repent of our sins, it opens the way for us to please God and to begin fresh in living in obedience to His ways. Wise people listen to what God has to say. This loving God redeems us and purposes that we live according to His word – free from guilt, but also free from deceit and willful sin. Wise people listen to God, because life with God is beautiful – and in being forgiven, life is boundless.
Davis– Lessons in the ETB series for the winter quarter are being written by Ron Davis, director of missions for Greenville Baptist Association.