Warning Love

 

    Malachi was an oracle in Judah, just before Ezra's appearance, around 450 BC.  God spoke through Malachi.  His term of service may have been short, but it was not without impact.  Malachi spoke boldly about His encounter with God.  His book is the last book recorded in the Old Testament.  After him and Ezra, God is silent for about 400 years.  No more prophets, oracles, or visions.  If the people knew I wonder how it would have impacted them.

    God reminded Malachi about His love, but it came with a warning.  He loved His people and gave them everything.  He hated those who reject or would not listen and took everything from them.  He had been declaring this to His people for hundreds of years.  It was time to straighten up.  This was their last chance for the next several generations to listen and change.  God's warning is if His people will not listen and change, then He will destroy their lives.  A healthy fear shows wisdom that can lead to devotion and obedience.

    God really does not ask that much of us.  He sent leaders to train and educate us on what is expected.  We need to have faith and show honor through obedience.  Yet, generation after generation people can not manage to do that.  Why do we ask favors of God when we can't do what He ask of us?  Some go so far as to scorn His ways.  They were spiritually depleted and their priest were not doing anything to change that.

    If you look at our lives as a nation, do you think God is pleased?  He was not pleased with Israel.  He would not except their inadequate offerings.  He wants our hearts more than our acts of service.  To be a hypocritical Christian is to bring a curse upon yourself because lies are cursed.  

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