#soap # Hosea 06 ## Title: Return to the LORD ## Scripture: (Hosea 6:1) “Come on! Let’s return to the Lord. He himself has torn us to pieces, but he will heal us! He has injured us, but he will bandage our wounds!” (NET) ## Observation: Some have looked at this verse and criticized Christianity. They say this sounds like an abusive relationship and the victim is returning to the abuser. This shows they have not read the Bible much. If you are looking for an illustration, this would be closer to a child who has received discipline from their parent and realizes the parent gave discipline out of love. When a child has not been disciplined, it shows. They are wild and hard to be around. When a child has received discipline, it also shows. Many times, when I see an adult who has little self-control and feels the world is against them, I find out they did not receive discipline as a child. It is out of love that a parent shows their child where boundaries are and the consequences of crossing healthy boundaries. The same is true with God. Yes, He disciplines us but always with love. Therefore, this verse tells us that the Lord has shown His love. Our response should be to return to Him. ## Application: Do not see the discipline of the Lord as anything other than love. Out of His great love, He chooses discipline over our destruction. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for loving us enough to show us healthy boundaries.