Broken Vows

Anyone familiar with the book of Hosea (from the Bible) realize the faulty marital relationship between Hosea and his unfaithful wife, Gomer, is also a spiritual analogy  of the Heavenly Father’s unconditional love for His flawed children. For a skillfully-crafted updated fictional version of this story, I highly suggest you read Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers.

Both spiritual and physical adultery are considered dangerous (as depicted in the book of Hosea). Below are their similarities and dangers:

o  Both types of adultery are a sin against God. Being aware of breaking God’s rules, leads to a hardened heart and a strained relationship with the Almighty.

o  Both of these breakdowns in the communication process (with God or a spouse) start with disappointment or dissatisfaction in an already fragile relationship (whether that is real or imagined).

Don’t give up on reconciliation when you feel you have once again disappointed your spouse (or God). This feeling of rejection is normal. Work through this process until you get the results you desire.

o  A parallel between both forms of adultery begin with affection being diverted from one object of devotion to another. This process can lead to sin (without being fully aware of it).

o  Both of these issues involve relationship deterioration of some kind. It’s not an act of impulsiveness. It may not be recognized until it’s too late.

o  There is often a mental fantasy created about what a new object of your love can do for you. These desires often lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment in current (and future) relationships.

Then God ordered me, “Start all over: Love your wife again, your wife who’s in bed with her latest boyfriend, your cheating wife. Love her the way I, God, love the Israelite people, even as they flirt and party with every God that takes their fancy.” Hosea 3:1 (MSG)

Though this verse is blunt, it makes an excellent point (as all scripture does). How many times do we put other things ahead of God? Our idols might include work, our family, TV, writing (ouch), sex, sports, and the list goes on. You think of more.

The Almighty often gets our leftovers of devotion (or physical energy). Who’s in the driver’s seat of your life? Was Carrie Underwood correct when she sang, “Jesus, Take the Wheel”? If you make Jesus the back seat driver of your life, who’s to blame when things get all messed up? Think about that, and do what needs to be done. 

*Adapted from the article, “Spiritual Unfaithfulness” from The Life Application Bible, New International Version edition.