READ
Malachi 1:6-14
CONSIDER
The call of the book of Malachi is to live as his people, even when times are tough. The Israelites have returned to Jerusalem but are still under foreign rule. They have rebuilt the temple but there has not been a spiritual revival in the land.
God speaks to his people reminding them that growth in numbers or a greater influence in the world is not what He wants. God desires hearts that are fully devoted to Him so He reminds them they are loved, they are chosen, and He has not forgotten them. As we dive into this new series, may we be challenged to live as his people because God will never leave or forsake us.
Look forward to worshipping with you on Sunday.
Pastor Tim Sreedharan
PRAY
Father, help us to look to the cross to see the surpassing greatness of Christ. For if we understand what you have done for us, we can, through the power of the Spirit, live with a whole hearted devotion toward Jesus.
“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.” ~ Philippians 3:8 ~
DIVING DEEPER
How has the priesthood shown contempt toward God?
As you read this text, how have the priests lost their devotion to follow God?
Why does it matter that God cares more about the state of our heart than our actions?
If God desires hearts that are fully devoted to Him, where do you struggle to be fully devoted?
What should we do when we don’t feel like we are living with a whole hearted devotion toward Christ?