The Lord Speaks to Israel and Judah

People of Israel and Judah, what can I do with you? Your love for me disappears more quickly than mist or dew at sunrise.

Sin's Terrible Results

Israel, when I, the Lord, found you long ago it was like finding grapes in a barren desert or tender young figs. Then you worshiped Baal Peor, that disgusting idol, and you became as disgusting as the idol you loved.

Love is patient and kind, never jealous, boastful, proud, or

rude. Love isn't selfish or quick tempered. It doesn't keep a record of wrongs that others do.

I am not ordering you to do this. I am simply testing how real your love is by comparing it with the concern that others have shown.

If you are a follower of Christ Jesus, it makes no difference whether you are circumcised or not. All that matters is your faith that makes you love others.

Tell the older women to behave as those who love the Lord should. They must not gossip about others or be slaves of wine. They must teach what is proper,