Repent With A Promise
"Forgive all our sins and receive us graciously, that we may offer the fruit of our lips." (Hosea 12:2)
Throughout the Book of Hosea, we see that God's people had turned away from Him and worshipped other gods. God spoke tenderly to them and wooed them back just as Hosea spoke tenderly to his wife. Hosea bought Gomer back from a life of prostitution for 15 pieces of silver.
Not only did Israel serve other gods, but Israel also made treaties with their enemies and sent them precious gifts (Hosea 12:1). At the end of the book, God Himself admonished Israel to return to Him with repentance. He said that was the only way to bring blessings upon the nation.
God further explained that true repentance involves more than the admission of sin. There should be a promise of change. God said, "Take words with you and return to the Lord." This means God wanted them and God wants us not only to confess and admit the need for forgiveness, but God also wants us to make a promise of change.
Ask for forgiveness and repent with a promise.
Rev. Margaret Minnicks
