Scripture text for Wednesday, December 31st, 1969: Malachi 1:1-4:6
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Malachi proclaimed God’s faithfulness to an unfaithful people.
It is easy to say, “How could the Israelites be so hard-headed and disobedient?” But, then as I more closely examined their disobedience, I had to acknowledge I am no different than they.
Is God still faithful to us as believers today when we …
… don’t give Him our best in all we do for His name’s sake?
… don’t know the God we are to serve so as not to be led astray or to lead others astray?
… are not faithful to commitments and covenants we have made with others and with Him?
… twist what He has said about Himself?
… don’t acknowledge His provisions for us by giving back to Him what He requires of us?
The answer to all of these questions is “Yes! God is still faithful.”
Malachi painted a picture of Israel’s unfaithfulness, which was deserving of judgment and punishment. We are no different today, but because of an unchanging, loving, patient God, we receive mercy and grace, just as the Israelites received.
“But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall.” (Malachi 4:2)
Devotion prepared by Dar Muehlhausen