There is a story in the Bible not often talked about because of its scandalous nature and the frankness of the Lord our God toward His own people.
It is the story of Hosea.
Hosea was a prophet who was told to marry a prostitute. Someone who would definitely be unfaithful to him no matter what he might do to make her love him.
There are many things about this story—firstly, priests and prophets were only to marry virgins. Secondly, why would God ask His loyal prophet to endure a life of pain and heartache?
Many of us go through trials of our own making and have regrets and shame and guilt, etc.
But not many of us endure undeserved suffering because God has invited us on His side of the veil.
On God’s side of the veil is continual ungratefulness, hate, loathing, ridicule, denial, unbelief, treachery….do I need to go on?
But we rarely consider these things when called on to suffer for the kingdom.
When God says, “My mercies are new every morning!” do you take the time to enjoy the newness of them?
If they truly are new, they need to be received as new, with a joy that appreciates mercies from God.
There is a new year tomorrow. Will you receive it as a new mercy from God...or not?
Pastor Brent
All new in “24”