16 Then those who feared the LORD talked with each other, and the LORD listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the LORD and honored his name.
17 “On the day when I act,” says the LORD Almighty, “they will be my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as a father has compassion and spares his son who serves him. 18 And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.” (Malachi 3.16-18)
“Not only did these good people fear God, they also encouraged each other. Then those who revered the LORD spoke with one another (16). God has made us for positive relationships with each other, and a vital part of those relationships is mutual encouragement. We need to be encouraged by others, and we need to encourage others as well. Encouragement is a good mixture of personal interest, affirmation of what is good and godly, exhortation to continue, endure and grow, warning of any dangers, and promise of support, interest, love and prayers. It is a mutual ministry to which all are called, and which all need.” (P. Adam, The Message of Malachi)
Let’s pray: Lord, may we seek to encourage one another, to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Empower us through your Spirit to use our gifts to build up the body of Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Let’s sing “Hands to the Heavens” by Kari Jobe (click here).
–JP