Scripture: Malachi 1:1–6
Dear beloved, have you ever felt that God loves others more than you? Israel once questioned God’s love the same way: “How have You loved us?” Through the prophet Malachi, God reminds His people that His love is faithful and universal.
Today, we are reminded that God’s love is not bound by race, nation, or status — His heart beats for every tribe and tongue.
The book of Malachi was written around 450 BC, after the return from exile. The people were discouraged and spiritually indifferent. They doubted God’s love because their situation was not as glorious as before. Through Malachi, God reaffirmed His everlasting love for Israel — and ultimately for all nations.
God says, “I have loved you,” yet the people question Him. He reminds them of Jacob and Esau. The Hebrew word “’ahab” means committed, covenantal love — not mere emotion. God’s love for Jacob was an act of grace, not favoritism.
Cross Reference: Romans 9:15 — “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy.” God’s choosing love opens salvation to all nations through His sovereign grace.
Transition: God’s love not only chooses — it also corrects.
God rebukes His people for dishonoring Him. The Hebrew word “kabod” (honor, glory) reveals the respect due to Him. Their careless sacrifices reflected hearts that had forgotten His holiness.
True love disciplines. God corrects not to destroy but to restore. He disciplines His children so they may grow in reverence and obedience.
Cross Reference: Hebrews 12:6 — “The Lord disciplines those He loves.”
Transition: After choosing and correcting, God’s love now calls us to share it with all nations.
“Your eyes will see this, and you will say, ‘Great is the Lord even beyond the borders of Israel!’” The Hebrew word “gadol” (great) emphasizes God’s universal greatness.
God’s love extends beyond Israel. Through Christ, salvation is offered to every people and nation. As John 3:16 declares: “For God so loved the world…”
We, as His church, are called to be channels of that love — in workplaces, schools, families, and online. God’s love must overflow from us to the world.
Beloved, God’s love is not exclusive but inclusive. He chooses, corrects, and sends us out to love others. Let us live as witnesses of His boundless grace.
God’s love breaks every wall, Reaching hearts both near and small, Share His grace, obey His call, That all may know His love for all.
Reflect today: has your life shown the love of God to all people? Be thankful for His choosing grace — and let that love flow to everyone around you.