Every morning when I open God’s autobiography, I specifically pray and ask Him to show me who He is in the pages of Scripture. This week I’ve been in Hosea. While every book in the Bible speaks to the character of God in some way, the word pictures in this one bring new meaning to His unfailing love for us. I specifically love the language of the 1984 version of the NIV. This week I’m praising God:
1). That He removes the names of the Baals from our lips, 2:17. Clinging too tightly to the things of this world? Ask Him to remove from your heart that which crowds Him out.
2). He pastures us like lambs in a meadow (4:16b) that is, when our stubbornness doesn’t get in the way.
3). “I am like a green pine tree; your fruitfulness comes from me” (14:8b). We’d do well to remember this.
4). A few days ago my sister-in-law’s hot water heater broke flooding part of her basement. She, like I, immediately saw dollar signs. Turns out, because God is AWESOME and because she hasn’t had it that long, she is eligible for a new one for free. Needless to say, there was much praising in the Nielson family.
5). Every summer I spend a lot of time in my old neighborhood sitting poolside and spending time with a good friend. The woman could live in a cave, and I wouldn’t care. It’s the hours-long conversations with her that draw me. Plus, she makes a killer cup of coffee!
6). That my kids have an amazing father. He’s at every one of Nick’s games, and he’s still taking Abby out for dates. Amazing.
7). Father’s Day makes me think of my mom. She was both a mom and dad to me all growing up, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without her involvement in my life. Thanks Mom!
Kathryn Nielson 
All well-said, especially the last one:) Love you, Mom!