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Joel 1 - Day 756 (link to reading)
Scripture: Joel 1:15-20 Summary (gotquestions.org): Judah, the setting for the book, is devastated by a vast horde of locusts. This invasion of locusts destroys everything—the fields of grain, the vineyards, the gardens and the trees. Joel symbolically describes the locusts as a marching human army and views all of this as divine judgment coming against the nation for her sins. The book is highlighted by two major events. One is the invasion of locusts and the other the outpouring of the Spirit. The initial fulfillment of this is quoted by Peter in Acts 2 as having taken place at Pentecost. Application: Most people live their lives as if they're going to heaven when they die. The bible prophets, especially Joel, clearly state that everyone will stand before God and be judged for their actions here on earth. Prayer: Lord Jesus, have mercy on us sinners... Hosea 14 - Day 755 (link to reading)
Scripture: Hosea 14:1-9 Commentary (casualcommentaryblog.wordpress.com): The final chapter of Hosea focuses on Israel’s future repentance and restoration. Though chapter 13 highlighted that this hope is for Israel’s future, not their present, chapter 14 beautifully and poetically describes that future day when God would invite people to return to him, confess their sins, ask for forgiveness, and offer themselves and their worship, while once and for all ridding themselves of idolatry, self-reliance, and unfaithfulness. Application: In God’s unfathomable mercy and love, He has provided a way for us to fix what we have broken. Like a loving parent, He has made it simple for us to be right with Him. All we have to do is repent from our sins and worship Him alone. Prayer: Lord Jesus, have mercy on me a sinner... Hosea 13 - Day 754 (link to reading)
Scripture: Hosea 13:4-6 Commentary (thewarehouse.blog): When we have an abundant amount of possessions and things, we grow self-sufficient. We suddenly aren’t talking to God as much or relying on Him because there’s well, no struggle. And this is the case that happened to the people of Israel. They became so stable in the physical realm of the world, they turned their backs on their Creator who had led them faithfully from Egypt. Self-sufficiency is destructive as it was then as it is today. Application: Like the Israelites, Americans have been blessed with freedom, opportunity, and prosperity. However, as noted in the commentary above, our test is not hunger, but indifference. There is something to be said of those who desperately need a miracle and cling to God. Thankfully, we don't need to experience hardships to seek God with all of our hearts. We can simply choose to do so. Prayer: Lord, draw me close to You... Hosea 12 - Day 753 (link to reading)
Scripture: Hosea 12:1-14 Commentary (thewarehouse.blog): The story of Jacob is referenced through Hosea as the Lord reminds the people of their hard-heartedness and determination to make their own decisions. Much like Jacob, they are following in their ancestor’s footsteps. As Jacob was brought to his knees that starry night on the edge of the river, so they would be as well. But the rest of the story of Jacob’s life would also bring a hope to the people as God blessed Jacob over and over again. His love ran deep and did so for them. Although they were so self-absorbed in every aspect of their lives, brokenness would lead them home. God had to break this strong-willed child Jacob through hardship and heartache. God was doing the same with His people as a whole. And God does the same today. The reminder of Jacob’s story was a challenge to wrestle with Him for His ultimate blessing. Even in their own selfishness, God would prevail. He would meet them where they were and grapple with them but the challenge was to cling to Him and not let go until His blessing came. Application: The difference between discipline and punishment is based on our motives. We discipline those we love because we want the best for them. On the other hand, we'll punish those we do not care about because they've hurt or embarrassed us in some way. God loves us and therefore disciplines us. Prayer: Lord, have Your way in me... Hosea 11 - Day 752 (link to reading)
Scripture: Hosea 11:1-11 Commentary (preachingsource.com): The book of Hosea is a testimony to love reaching beyond rejection. From the prophet’s love for Gomer, which was the basis for his purchase of his adulterous wife, to Yahweh’s self-expression of love for Israel in chapter 11, the theme of love is found repeatedly in Hosea. What one learns of Yahweh’s love by way of illustration in chapters 1-3 is expressed succinctly and clearly in chapter 11: Yahweh’s love is persistent in the face of opposition and rejection. It is this persistent love that is introduced as the basis for Yahweh’s dealings with Israel, and it is in the book of Hosea that one finds for the first time the notion that the relationship between Yahweh and Israel is founded on his love. Application: Time after time, YHWH mercifully extends grace to His children who have repeatedly disobeyed Him. Why? Because God is love. Prayer: Lord, help me to love others like You love them... |
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March 2023
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