When you say “I must do what works for me,” even though it means turning your back on what God wants, it will always lead to slavery–slavery to your own desires, passions, pleasures. There are a lot of people running around believing they are free; however, anytime we seek freedom that causes us to break the principles and precepts that God has set in place, we will become slaves–bought and sold for what we chase after.

Scriptures
Hosea 1-3:3; Psalm 30:4-5

Verses
Therefore I will block her path with thornbushes; I will wall her in so that she cannot find her way. (Hosea 2:6) Therefore I will take away my grain when it ripens, and my new wine when it is ready. I will take back my wool and my linen, intended to cover her naked body. (Hosea 2:9)

Thought
The story of Hosea and Gomer expresses the love God has for his children (Israel/us). When we run from God, his unbounded love will pursue us in whatever way is necessary to bring us to him. God loves us enough to make it painful, block our path with thorns, allow us to get scratched and go through difficult circumstances so that we will turn to him. Hosea bought Gomer back from her prostitution and slavery to again be his wife. The depths of love and forgiveness she experienced are unfathomable, just as is God’s love and forgiveness to us.

Questions
When was the last time you ran from God? What were you chasing after? How did God block your path? Are you still running? If so, why? If not, what brought you to him? When are you most likely to run from God? What triggers your flight?

Response
Think about the magnitude of God’s love for you and the price he paid for your sin and shame. Live each day in a spirit of thankfulness for all God has done for you.

Prayer
Lord, thank you for finding me, for not giving up on me no matter how often or far I run. I know that you alone can make my life complete. Keep me from running after things that enslave me and mess up your plan for my life. I want to stay close to you. Help me, Lord. In Jesus Name, Amen.