Passage
Malachi 1:1-14 (ESV)
God Accepts Those Who Fear Him
Acts 10:17-35
Key Verse: 10:34
Honor the Lord Almighty
Date: Aug. 27, 2019
Daily Bread
Introduction to Malachi
Key Verse: 1:11a
1. "I have loved you," says the LORD (1-5)
Malachi's prophecy begins with the LORD's message, "I have loved you." However, the people doubted God's love. The LORD reminded his people that his love was demonstrated in his choice of Jacob over Esau. God chose Jacob and his descendants because of his one-sided love and sovereign choice. Over time, the descendants of Esau would be judged for their evil and pride. We cannot fully understand God's choice in love. But we can be certain that God loves us because of his word and promise in Jesus (1 Jn 4:10; Ro 5:8).
2. "For I am a great king" (6-14)
The people dishonored God and showed contempt for his name by offering diseased animals. Such animals couldn't be given to earthly governors who would certainly refuse them. How could they dare offer them to the LORD God Almighty, the greatest King? God desires that his name be honored everywhere in the world with pure offerings from a broken and contrite heart (Ps 51:17). This begins from those who are called by his name (2 Ch 7:14).
Prayer: Prayer: Lord, thank you for your amazing love. Help me to honor you with offerings worthy of your name.
One Word: God's name will be great
