Forgivable

The Lord told the prophet Hosea to marry Gomer, a harlot. He obeyed and she would ultimately cheat on him. Through a series of events she returned home and Hosea received his wife in forgiveness, by ordinance of God: "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)

The story of Hosea and Gomer is an allegory of God’s love for us, the Bride of Christ. We continually sin against Him; chase other gods; neglect the relationship to pursue lustful interests; and He forgives. He takes us back.

Who are we to be less than merciful to others than He is to us? Who are we to forget our own sin in the wake of an offense?

"But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins." (Matthew 6:15, NLT)

Our righteous indignation has the propensity to lead to a self-righteousness that rebels against the spiritual principle set by God—forgiveness. And, there is no scriptural justification for unforgiveness.

Adultery can devastate a Christian home just as it can an unbelieving home. However, the difference is Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith; the Restorer of all things; and the One who makes all things new. Our Savior can fix anything including a broken marriage.

We, also, have the incredible ministry of the Holy Spirit who will convict our hearts; fill us with the knowledge of godly things; and speak to us regarding actions to take in line with God’s will. He is our Aide in getting to the root of the problem and permanently eliminating it.

Ideally, the partners will evaluate the dynamics of their marriage, which means being truthful about any neglect incurred; improper or incompatible sex attitudes and mistreatment in any form. Without an honest and thorough examination the marriage is doomed.