Thursday, December 31
Read Malachi 3-4
Think About It:
- Malachi 3:1 predicts the arrival of John the Baptist, to prepare the way for Jesus. Verses 2-4 peer into the future when Christ will return to earth and judge the nations, as in Matthew 25:31-32. In His return, Jesus refines, purifies and cleanses His people and judges the unbelievers. This chapter also portrays the importance of giving to God, both the tithe and the offerings. In Matthew 22:21, Jesus repeats this important principle. Giving demonstrates our love for God and helps keep the spirit of greed away from our financial lives.
- Malachi 4 encourages everyone to align their hearts to God’s Word. Avoid any proud, self-righteous, or haughty thoughts or attitudes in your heart! For those who fear the LORD (have a wholesome dread of ever displeasing Him) with awe-filled reverence, He will come as the sun of righteousness with healing in His wings! We, who are saved, will be filled with joy. God will cause the hearts of fathers to turn toward their children and the hearts of children toward their fathers (reconciliation produced by repentance). Take a few moments in prayer with God, who sees in secret, and make sure your heart is right with God. Ask Him to reveal any areas that you need to make changes. Is your heart generous toward God and others, are you humble before God and others, do you show respect for God and give Him your first priority every day?
Family Time:
- What blessings would those who brought their tithes receive? (Chapter 3:10-12)
- For whom would a book of remembrance be written? (Chapter 3:16)
- What will happen to the proud and wicked? (Chapter 4:1)
- Who will arise for those that fear the name of the LORD? (Chapter 4:2)
