Day 278 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith)
continues as my commentary moves to the book of Malachi where this prophet arrives on the scene to offer encouragement during a period when Israel is struggling to rekindle its spiritual life even after rebuilding the temple upon return from exile. My commentary describes the period where Israel is growing impatient, waiting for the prophesied Messiah: "[a]s discouragement and cynicism set in, the people’s spiritual commitment suffers: The temple service is being neglected for lack of tithes and offerings; the priests are offering blemished sacrifices and failing to give instruction in the law; the men are marrying wives who worship foreign gods; and divorce is rampant....Without a doubt his prophecies speak to the very issues of this period. Malachi’s message is powerful in its simplicity: Yes, God does still love his people; and, yes, all the grandeur of the ultimate restoration is still coming—in God’s own time. In the meantime, it is each person’s responsibility to lead the kind of life that will be fit for God’s holy kingdom."
*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition.
Waiting for the Lord is a common theme in the Bible - many find it difficult to see God at work in their lives. Yet God is always at work. He wants us to patiently endure.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, I know You are always at work and You are faithful - all of Your promises come true - no word from God will ever fail. I have seen this in my own life and I am grateful for the many blessings You pour out for me. I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin continues - worry, etc. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Please provide wisdom and strength for Lisa and myself. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
