“Come, and let us return to the LORD;
For He has torn, but He will heal us;
He has stricken, but He will bind us up.
After two days He will revive us;
On the third day He will raise us up,
That we may live in His sight.” (Hosea 6:1-2)

This was Hosea’s earnest call to Israel, who had not repented despite his warnings and God’s discipline upon them like a loving Father (Heb 12:5-8).

Was God’s silence His approval? No. Hosea knew that judgment would come unless they returned to Him. Yet the people thought their times of peace meant God wouldn’t send punishment.

When we remain in sin and God remains silent, do not think that all is well. Hosea’s words ring through the ages, urging us to return to God.

God waits for us with His loving arms open; though Peter’s faith had fallen, Jesus gave him breakfast and gently restored him (John 21). He wants us to leave the sticky deceitfulness of sin and live in peaceful righteousness.

But if we do not repent, God’s punishment will come.

When the church of Ephesus had left their first love – their earnest devotion for God, He urged them to return to Him. Unless they repented, God would remove their lampstand from its place (Rev 2:4-5).

Let us not abuse God’s kindness. If we are so stubborn that we sin wilfully, living contrary to God’s commands despite knowing His saving grace, there will be no place for repentance, even if we seek it diligently with tears (Heb 10:26-29; 12:17).

Make a change

Does your faith need a spiritual revival? Do you need to repent for leaving your first love?

These reflection questions will help us determine if we do:

1. Do I eagerly look forward to the next church service, Bible study, or lesson?

2. Am I filled with gratitude that the Lord has saved me and brought me into the true church?

3. When was the last time I felt moved or energised by the word of God?

4. How is my faith now compared to a previous peak in my faith?

If we answered “No” to questions 1 and 2, then let us take Hosea’s plea to heart and return to God. Questions 3 and 4 shed some light on how we can do so.

Now, how will you respond?

Read our Instagram post for 5 steps you can take to turn back to God.