Today I read Hosea 11, where God’s compassion towards Israel stops God from destroying Israel. Today I considered that God’s love and compassion for his children keeps us from facing worse consequences for our actions.
Compassion Stayed God’s Hand
God freed Israel from Egypt, and while Israel still turned from God, God did not destroy them (Hosea 11:1-12). God led Israel out of Egypt, taking off their burdens, guiding them, teaching them, and healing them. Israel kept sacrificing to Baalim and worshiping idols and did not return to God. So, God allowed Israel to be suppressed by the Assyrians. God’s love for Israel and remembrance of His covenant stopped God from entering the city and from fiercely destroying Ephraim. God knows of their lies and deceit.
Questions and Thoughts for Today
God’s love for Israel kept them from facing complete destruction. God could have sent Israel back to Egypt or entered their cities and destroyed everything, but God chose compassion instead. God loves us the same way. God could punish us more severely, but instead of the maximum sentence/fine/punishment, God gives us grace and leniency.
Can you describe a time when you prayed to God and your trouble(s) were not as bad as you thought they would be?