Passage
Malachi 2:1-9 (ESV)
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 8:26-40
Key Verse: 8:35
The Messenger of the Lord Almighty
Date: Dec. 27, 2014
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 2:7
First, a messenger to honor God's name (1-3). The name Malachi translates to "my messenger." In the same way a priest is God's messenger, who must set his heart to honor God. When a priest doesn't follow God such a blessing becomes a curse. God rebuked the priests to help them repent, to set their hearts and their lives to honor God.
Second, my covenant was with him (4-6). God established his covenant with the Levites, and he wanted it to continue. They had been set apart for the Lord since the time they stood with Moses in the incident of the golden calf (Ex 32:26,29). They served the Lord continually in every way, from singing to sacrifices. The covenant God established was one of life and peace. Serving the Lord is life and peace.
Third, a priest must be the Lord's messenger (7-9). Instead of preserving knowledge, the priests of Malachi's time actually caused people to stumble. God humbled them in the sight of the people when they did not obey their calling.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be a good steward of your word, to honor you. Make me a blessing for others.
One Word: A messenger who honors the Lord
