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I will heal their backsliding

I will heal their backsliding


"I will heal their backsliding—I will love them freely." Hosea 14:4

Backsliding "in heart" is a serious evil. But open departure from God and indulgence in sin is far worse, as it brings a reproach upon the name of Christ, and serves to harden the ungodly in their evil ways.

The backslider not only dishonors religion and grieves the Holy Spirit—he also fearfully wounds his own soul. But the Great Physician can even heal the wounds of the backslider. Our God is gracious and full of compassion.

He calls to the wanderer, and says: "Return unto the Lord your God—for you have fallen by your iniquity." He helps his infirmity—as with shame and confusion of face he comes back.

He puts, as it were, a prayer into his lips, for He says: "Take with you words, and turn to the Lord; and say unto Him: Take away all my iniquity—and receive me graciously."

Reader, have you wandered in some forbidden path , and brought dishonor on your Lord, and distress into your soul?

Be humbled, but do not despond. There is mercy for you. Jesus, who gave Peter, after his grievous fall, such a look of tender compassion that he went out and wept bitterly—waits to be gracious to you. Cast yourself at His feet, confess your sins—and you will prove His forgiving love and healing mercy.

"Return, O wanderer! return!
  Your Savior bids your spirit live;
  Go to His bleeding feet, and learn
  How freely Jesus can forgive!"


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