SUMMARY: Compassionate
OVERVIEW: Despite Israel’s sin, rebellion, and ingratitude, God does not give up on Israel. God’s compassion overflows, so he does not carry out his anger.
BIG IDEA: Thank God for his faithful love.
KEY VERSE: Hosea 11:9 (God to Hosea)
No, I will not unleash my fierce anger. I will not completely destroy Israel, for I am God and not a mere mortal. I am the Holy One living among you, and I will not come to destroy.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
I created you. I formed you into a living being, and when you gave your life to Jesus, I began to develop you into the image of Christ. I provide you with air to breathe each day. I allow your body to function without you being aware of all the processes taking place in each breath. I taught you to walk, and I healed your body, mind, and soul. And despite all I do for you, you are prone to disregard me. You choose people that boast promises they can’t keep and things that are shiny for a season.
Even so, I will not give up on you. I will continue to extend my hand. I will continue to invite you to follow me. And I will continue to provide for your daily needs. I am not a man, so I do not respond in predictable ways. I am the Lord, and I am compassionate. Still, I invite you to choose life and follow me each day. Seek me, and I will provide more than you could imagine.
NEXT STEP
Give thanks today for God’s mercy and compassion. Acknowledge what he has done in your life. Show your gratitude by looking for ways to be kind and compassionate to others.
VIDEO CLIP
BONUS Music Video