I led them with cords of kindness, with the bands of love, and I became to them as one who eases the yoke on their jaws, and I bent down to them and fed them. Hosea 11:4 – The language in this chapter feels different than the previous for we see the compassion of the Lord shine. The Lord remembered and reminds His people how it was Him who rescued them from the hands of Egyptian slavery. He compared His faithfulness and help to them like a parent gently holding a child’s arms so they can begin to walk for the first time. In verse 4 God says He led them, but not with whips like their previous slave masters, but with cords of kindness and bands of love. Meaning He went before them, guiding them forward gently, and encouraging their faithfulness after Him with kindness and love. What a picture for the people in Hosea’s day, and also a picture that works for us. God isn’t behind us with a whip forcing us to follow His ways. Our God instead has come before us, is walking ahead of us, and gently guiding and encouraging our following of Him. He invites us to follow with loving kindness, but He also allows us to reject the guiding cords. We can have God’s word and God’s help in our life, but chose to not listen and walk our own path. That “freedom” is available to us, just know such a path doesn’t lead towards freedom. Listen then to the gentle words and obey the gentle tug from the Lord. He is calling you out of love for you and desiring your best life, which is a life of following Him. Examine how God has guided you well in the past and examine where rejection of His ways has gotten you. Follow today the One who is seeking to lead you. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 2950
Question To Ponder: Do you feel like the Lord guides with gentleness and love?
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