“Say to God: “Forgive all our sins and receive us graciously, that we may offer the fruit of our lips. Assyria cannot save us; we will not mount warhorses. We will never again say ‘Our gods’ to the work of our hands; for in You the fatherless find compassion.”

God says to you: “I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned away from them. I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like a lily…”

Who is wise? Let them realize these things. Who is discerning? Let them understand. The ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them” (Hos 14)

This is the last chapter in the Book of Hosea, the prophet. The whole Book is sad and painful but at last we see the hope for the future. Hosea is a true prophet, his ministry is unique. God commands him to do a strange thing: to marry a prostitute and to have wayward children. His family life will be ‘hell on earth’. His pain is great; none can understand, except God who called him. His pain forces him to come closer to God. Hosea is God’s man, a true prophet to the nations!

These are the lessons for us:

1. REPENT AND RETURN – Stop and change direction in life. New strategy will be revealed, success assured! This is a period of transition in your life. It is the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new one. Have hope! Have faith! Your latter part of life will be better than the first.
2. COME WITH YOUR WORDS – Pray continually! Pray more; in English and in the Spirit! God wants to hear your voice! Access is granted to you in His presence. Do not complain to men anymore. They can’t help you because God wants to talk to you. Reject the evil spirit of religion. Forgive all and forgive yourself. Bring to God all your questions, all your arguments, all pains and joys, your secret poems and buried songs, silent dreams, prophetic utterances and all. God wants to answer you Himself! You have been found faithful in little things – so you will have authority over greater things. This is God’s decree 
3. FRUITFULNESS AND INCREASE IS APPROVED – GOD LOVES YOUR FAMILY– You can only plant the seed. God alone gives the increase, the multiplication, the harvest. Your God is the God of your wife and the God of your children. God is with them as He is with you. They are not ‘second hand’ citizens. God has forgiven them from backsliding, rebellion and foolishness. They will change and serve God. You will never regret having children. They are God’s gift and reward. Give your children to God. You can never be their God. Only God is God! Let the Cross kill your natural emotions for your family. See them as God’s property. You have done your best as a parent. Now is time for God to take over your burden. Trust Him!
4. WISDOM WILL REWARD YOU WITH LONG LIFE –Foolishness and ignorance is shameful and a hindrance to progress. Wisdom comes from God and He will give you the power to live successfully, no regrets, no sorrow. Your life is not in the doctor’s hands. Your life belongs to God! God rewards you as you diligently seek Him! God will make your paths straight, simple and easy. You will be a sign and a wonder to people. They will be surprised at your new strength and joy to serve God. You will work less and you will make greater spiritual and eternal impact. Just promise to give all the glory to God!

You are forgiven, healed, made wise and loved freely!

To You O Lord be all the glory, now and forever!

In Jesus name,

Amen!