Daily Bible Reading – July 2023, God’s Saving Word: Mercy and ForgivenessНамуна

July 26

Introduction

This final chapter of Hosea begins with the prophet calling the people of Israel to turn away from sin and return to the LORD. The chapter concludes with the LORD’s promise to heal and love Israel followed by an exhortation to understand God’s righteousness.

Scripture Reading

Hosea 14:1-9

Today’s Key Verse: Hosea 14:9b

The LORD’s ways are right, and righteous people live by following them, but sinners stumble and fall because they ignore them.

Reflect

Reread verses 4-8. What images are used to describe the LORD’s love? What does the phrase “return to the LORD” (verse 2) mean to you? Verse 9 reads like a proverb. After having read excerpts from the book of Hosea, what are your thoughts as you read this concluding verse? What have you learned about the ways of God?

Pray

Lord God, your ways are indeed right. Help me to follow your ways so that I may grow wise through the knowledge of your teachings. Shelter me in the safety of your love. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Jonah 1:1-17: God calls the prophet Jonah and tells him to bring a message to the people of Nineveh.