Looking back at the relationship between God and Israel, you will see a continual struggle. Like a parent to a child, God desires to care for Israel, and yet they continue to rebel against God. Throughout the book of Hosea and in the writings of many other prophets, we hear God list the sins of His people. He clearly labels their mistakes to get their attention. In the passages of scripture, we also find the very heart of God, revealed through promises to His children.

In verse 14 of Hosea 13, God responds to Israel's stubbornness with a mighty promise of salvation from death. God states that He will personally destroy the grave, and in the process, He will save Israel. Of course, this promise is not just for the nation of Israel. God promises the same for anyone who would call upon His name. Regardless of our sin, God says He will overcome death on our behalf. God has already overcome death and the grave through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Three days after Jesus entered the tomb, He stood victorious over the power of death. Jesus now holds the key to everlasting life, and He will open the doors to it for us if we call out for His amazing grace.

Life Lesson: Christ's love is more profound than any pit of sin. Do not grow weary trying to crawl out; look up to Christ & be free.

Dear Jesus,
I believe You died for me so that I could be forgiven. I believe You were raised from the dead so I could have a new life. I know I've done wrong things, and I'm sorry. Please forgive me and give me the power to follow You throughout my life.
In the name of Jesus, amen.

Living to tell what He died to say,
Pastor David McGee

Senior Pastor
The Bridge
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