Hosea 6:2 “After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence”

This is my favorite time of year because the leaves seem to paint the landscape of God’s handiwork with vibrant greens, oranges, yellows, and reds.

But the beauty of fall passes quickly, as the leaves fall from their branches and become debris under our feet, that’s has no purpose but to be raked up and thrown away.

But the dead, falling leaves are a precursor to something beautiful. They form a carpet on the ground that slowly decays, enriching the soil and feeding the trees they just abandoned. The death of the leaves makes it possible for new leaves—new life—to appear in the spring.

God’s judgment had ripped Israel to shreds, but Hosea assured the nation new life was on its way. The trials would kill off those things that stood between the nation and its God.

The trials would allow God to breathe new life into Israel. As you observe this fall, consider what needs to die in your own life in order to renew you in Christ.

Prayer Suggestion: God, show me what must die so that I can live in Your presence.