Healing Love

But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.—Psalm 86:15

As I was finishing this month’s study, I escaped to a little cabin in Wisconsin to spend focused time in Bible study and writing. My husband sent me a text on day two, asking how it was going. My response? “Hosea is hard.” In this Old Testament book, you’ll see a harsh condemnation of Israel’s sin, their idolatry and promiscuity. The prophet Hosea passionately proclaimed God’s judgment. But we also see the persistent mercy of God. He pursues His people with a love that longs to redeem, to restore, and to heal.

I pray that your time in Hosea will encourage you to:

• Understand the devastating effects sin can have on our relationship with God
• Recognize the many ways in which God lavishes His redeeming love
• Confess your own divided affections, receive forgiveness and God’s love

Your devotional writer,
Kelli Worral

Kelli Worrall is a Professor of Communications and the Chair of the Division of Music and Media Arts at Moody Bible Institute. She is the author of several books. Kelli and her husband, Peter, often speak at marriage, college, and young adult retreats. They are parents of two children through adoption and enjoy decorating their Craftsman house.