Today we begin the book of Hosea, which was written during a prosperous time for Israel, though it was morally declining. The book was written to illustrate Israel’s unfaithfulness to God when Hosea is commanded to marry a promiscuous woman named Gomer. Hosea’s relationship with her, her adultery, and their children became living prophetic examples to Israel. As I read this book I am amazed by Hosea’s obedience to God, but then I am reminded of God’s faithfulness to me. This story illustrates my relationship to God and how I stray from my faithfulness to Him. I read this book reminded of how my relationship to God must change and how it must grow for me to be more faithful to Him.