Malachi 4:
I’m a Florida girl. There is just something about putting my toes in the sand on the beach, getting on our boat and being on the water, and/or walking in woods and enjoying the nature around me…all that sooth my soul and bring peace to me. The sun shining on my skin feels healing. Y’all, The Son brings peace and healing.
In Malachi 4:2 the Lord says, “But for those who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in His wings.” The Sun of Righteousness is The Son of God. Hallelujah! When I read those words, I imagined Psalm 91:4, “You can go to him for protection. He will cover you like a bird spreading its wings over its babies. You can trust him to surround and protect you like a shield.” (Please read and embrace Deuteronomy 32:11, Psalm 17:8, Psalm 36:7, Psalm 57:1, Psalm 61:4 too, and feel safe.) Tranquility consumed me as I pondered on God’s word.
Malachi four is the last chapter in this minor prophet’s book. It consists of only 6 verses. Within this mini chapter is a mighty word. It begins with a strong and sobering word, but hang on…there is joy.
Join me as I jot down some notes:
- Verse 1, As I am writing this, the state of California is unfortunately going through a horrifically, devastating time as thousands of acres, homes, businesses, and numerous lives have been consumed. I can’t even imagine what they all are going through. (Please pray.) Most of these homes, businesses, and lives will be rebuilt. Not to minimize the destruction in CA at all, just to use as a current visual, however, we do not need to downplay the truth of eternal life in Hell. Yes, I pray earnestly that lives will be reestablished and made whole for those in California, but for all mankind who do not take comfort in having and knowing Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, there will be an eternal burn with no chance of returning and reestablishing themselves.
- 2, I’ve already touched on this verse in the opening paragraph, but there’s still more. This verse includes freedom and joy for those who follow Christ. (Raise your hand if you are included in this. Me!)
- 3, In my NLT version, it says, “On the day when I act…” This is the Lord speaking. He WILL act. There will be a second coming of Jesus Christ. There is and will be victory. The reference to “tread upon the wicked as if they were dust under your feet” is evidence of that victory.
- 4, The Lord may have been speaking to the Israelites, but remembering God’s word and right living applies to us today as well. Read God’s word. Learn from it. Apply it to your life.
- 5 and 6, John the Baptist was the “Elijah” that was sent. God stresses the importance of relationships.
After Malachi wrote these final words, the Old Testament fell silent. Four hundred years later, we are introduced to God incarnate…Jesus Christ. I know Him! Do you?
Here are some questions for you to ponder:
- Do you know where you are going when you die? Heaven or Hell?
- How is your time regarding reading God’s word? I want to encourage you to dive into His word daily. Remembering to obey His Word, and strive to be like Christ every day.
- Is there a relationship you need to work on restoring? The most important relationship is with Jesus.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
