The Love of God

We're about to start a new study in the Book of Hosea. Most people think that the Love of God is mainly seen in the New Testament; but, this Old Testament book actually reveals so many aspects of God's Love as clearly as any other book in the Bible. The more powerful and poignant illustrations are those of His Redeeming and Salvation Love. "I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death. Where, O death, are your plagues? Where, O grave, is your destruction?" -- Hosea 13:14a We see the pain in the heart of God, as His love is rejected and forgotten by His people; yet, He remains faithful, despite their unfaithfulness. He longs to heal and forgive them; and He is persistent in pursuing them. His love endures for all time. One of the reasons why people tend not to see the Love of God in the Old Testament, is because they see the wrath of God displayed. However, it is clear that God's justice and discipline are actually demonstrations of His Love. "The LORD disciplines those He loves, as a father the son he delights in." (Proverbs 3:12)