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Bad things happen when we question God’s love in our lives. The Book of Malachi begins with God’s people questioning God’s goodness. . .
“I have always loved you,” says the Lord. But you retort, “Really? How have you loved us?” (1:2-3, NLT)
We build expectations of what God should be doing in our lives and when it doesn’t happen, we blame Him. I’ve listened to saints (and done it myself) who, after defeat or frustration in ministry, challenge God by saying. . .
‘What’s the use of serving God? What have we gained by obeying his commands or by trying to show the Lord of Heaven’s Armies that we are sorry for our sins? From now on we will call the arrogant blessed. For those who do evil get rich, and those who dare God to punish them suffer no harm’ (3:14-15).
Let’s consider the background of Malachi and what caused the anger of the Israelites.
The book was written about 100 years after the Israelites returned to Jerusalem from the Babylonian captivity. They were sacrificing in the temple but had become despondent in their faith, as God hadn’t blessed their nation according to their desires.
The overarching hope of every Israelite was. . .
Then all nations will call you blessed, for your land will be such a delight (3:12).
But it wasn’t happening.
The nation hadn’t been restored to glory, so the Israelites complained. Nothing good results from shaking our fists at God, but blessing does come from standing strong in our sorrows and trials.
Instead of steadfast faithfulness, the Israelites presented tainted sacrifices, divorce became rampant, and they weren’t paying tithes and offerings.
“Think of it! Animals that are stolen and crippled and sick are being presented as offerings! Should I accept from you such offerings as these?” asks the Lord (1:13).
“Guard your heart; remain loyal to the wife of your youth. For I hate divorce!” says the Lord, the God of Israel (2:15b-16a).
“Should people cheat God? Yet you have cheated me!” But you ask, “What do you mean? When did we ever cheat you?” “You have cheated me of the tithes and offerings due to me’” (3:8).
Books of prophecy in the Bible have two meanings—then and now. Complacency and accusing God didn’t work for the Israelites, and complaints against God won’t help us today.
Fortunately, our God, both in Old Testament times and now, loves us, and if we turn to Him in repentance will overturn our infidelities with grace. As Malachi concludes. . .
I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! (3:10)
Preach it, Malachi! And today, let’s test God and find His mercies.