From Handbook to God’s Promises
GOD’S WORDS HAVE PURPOSE
Hosea 6:6: Love and Mercy
In Hebrew the word for “mercy” is hesed, which refers to right conduct toward others, loyalty to the Lord, or both. This word is also translated as “love.” God requires that we love Him first and then go on to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39). Just as we desire mercy from God, so others need it from us. When mercy operates according to God’s intent, love flows from Him to us to others and back again to Him, creating a circle of right relationships.