1. Out of Egypt I called my son (1-7)

God loved Israel. Israel was his firstborn son. God brought him forth from the womb of Egypt, and taught him to walk in the desert. God led his people with cords of love; he lifted the yoke from their necks and stooped to feed them. But they rejected his love. They turned instead to idols they could see, and to sensual, corrupt religious practices. What could God do? He would allow the aggressor to invade, conquer and rule them.

2. I am God, not man (8-11)

When God thought of giving up his people, destroying them as he had the cities around Sodom, his heart was moved. His compassion was aroused. It is his privilege as God to change his mind, so he would give them another chance. He would teach them to fear God. He would roar like a lion, and they would come trembling to him. God is the Redeemer. He never gives up hoping.

Application: Lord, teach me to hope, not despair. Give me a love like yours.
One Word: God's steadfast love