Different prophet, different time (mid-5th century during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah) – same message. Malachi means ‘messenger’ but our opening verses points us forward towards John the Baptist and the ‘messenger of the covenant’ namely Jesus Himself. (See Matt 11:10-14).
We are reminded in v.6 that the Lord is unchanging. In what way? First, unchanging in His holiness. Therefore it is us who are invited to change – repent – with the promise He will turn to us and welcome us home. Let’s think about the call to holiness – ‘Be holy as I am holy.’ (1 Pet 1:16). His standards and call remain unchanged. There’s a bit of a list in v.5 – have a look at Col 3:5-10 for a more inclusive look at ways in which we can fall short of His call.
Second, unchanging in His desire to bless. An important aspect of our life to get sorted out is our generosity. The tithes of the people enabled the work of God in the temple to be fulfilled by the Levites and the priests. Today the work of the Kingdom through the local church needs to be resourced and we are called to be generous givers – a tithe or 10% is a great starting point. How can it be that we give less under grace than that demanded under law? The promise is that we are encouraged to test the Lord in this because He wants to bless us abundantly. You can’t out give God!
Third, unchanging in His faithfulness. We can be totally assured – those of us who have decided to follow Jesus – that we are His. Nothing can separate us from His love. We are His treasured possession. His compassion is everlasting. His mercy unending. His love enduring.
This scroll of remembrance in v.16 sounds great. I want to be on it! How? Fear the Lord. What are the marks of fearing Him? Be holy, be generous and honour His name. Is His name honoured through you?
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Question:
Anything catch your attention as you thought about God’s holiness and call to be holy? Sort it out! Anything challenge you about your finances and giving? Sort it out!
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for Your unchanging nature. Help me to live for You and be like You in this crazy yet beautiful world. Fill me afresh today with Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus name. Amen.