Return, Rely, and Hope in God
Sometimes I wonder what we look like to God when we try to get our own way. We plot. We plan. We try to get others on our side as we attempt to sway opinions and fix outcomes. And we aren’t the first ones to do it.
In the Old Testament book of Hosea, we see Israel trying to befriend and appease the superpowers of the time that would bring their nation peace and prosperity. They depended on these schemes rather than depending on the Lord. However, the idols Israel worshiped and the alliances they made with foreigners would leave the nation dry and even destroyed.
Then, in Hosea 12:6, the people are told to come back to God, act with love, pursue justice and depend solely upon Him. He is the God who rescues and warns and if the people will listen to Hosea and submit to God’s commands, they will be brought back into a right relationship with the Lord.
How often we too try to plan out our own way, not realizing the danger that lies in approaching life this way. May we instead pursue God’s ways and his will, saving ourselves a boatload of regret and sorrow.
Longing for a deeper, more consistent time with God?
52 Weeks in the Word is the perfect resource to guide your journey through Scripture. Co-authored by Ruth Schwenk, Courtney Joseph, and Karen Ehman, this beautifully designed study equips you to read the Bible carefully, study it prayerfully, and live it out practically. Each week includes a focused passage, space for reflection, insightful commentary, prayer prompts, and practical application questions to help you grow in faith.
Join us in spending 52 weeks in God’s Word! Grab your copy today and take the next step in your spiritual journey. 📖✨
