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After Israel returned from exile, many of the people were just as selfish and unjust as before. But there was a remnant of Israel who trusted and honored Yahweh. God called them his treasure and reminded them to hold on to his words of promise. We too can join this faithful remnant. When we feel overwhelmed by the state of our world, we can stand alongside generations of those who patiently trusted God. He assures us that he will bring justice and set all things right. He will keep his word. So as we continue to wait, we can also hold onto hope.
Bible Reading: Malachi 3:16-4:6
Reflection Questions:
- What is one thing you are patiently trusting God to make right?
- God said that those who trust and follow him are his treasured possession. What comes to mind as you reflect on what it means to be treasured?
- What would it practically look like for you to treasure God's promises today?
Show Credits: Host: Cheree Hayes Message: Dr. Tim Mackie Bible Reading: Michelle Jones Production: Cooper Peltz, Dan Gummel, and Zach McKinley Theme music: Grant William Harold Background Music: Ian Post, To Edinburgh
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Reflect
Once you've listened to the podcast, take time to reflect on these questions.
- What is one thing you are patiently trusting God to make right?
- God said that those who trust and follow him are his treasured possession. What comes to mind as you reflect on what it means to be treasured?
- What would it practically look like for you to treasure God’s promises today?
Go Deeper
If you would like to dive deeper, use these Scriptures and questions for personal study or small group discussion.
Message Question:
How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?
Read: Malachi 3:16-4:6
After Israel returned from exile, many of the people were just as selfish and unjust as before. But there was a remnant of Israel who trusted and honored Yahweh. God called them his treasure and reminded them to hold on to his words of promise. We too can join this faithful remnant. When we feel overwhelmed by the state of our world, we can stand alongside generations of those who patiently trusted God. He assures us that he will bring justice and set all things right. He will keep his word. So as we continue to wait, we can also hold onto hope.
- God called all of Israel to be his treasured possession as a kingdom of priests. Compare today’s passage with Exodus 19:3-6 and make observations. What did Israel need to believe in order to live out this treasured identity?
- Notice how this same treasured identity is extended to all who trust in Jesus. With this in mind, read Ephesians 1:13-14 as well as 1 Peter 2:4-10. What words and phrases especially stand out to you?
- God said that he would send Elijah to restore fractured relationships (Malachi 4:5-6). Read the angel’s announcement of John the Baptist’s birth in Luke 1:16-17 and Jesus’ explanation in Matthew 17:10-12.
- Note how John the Baptist restored fractured relationships in Luke 3:8-18. What did he call for and to whom did he point? What is the significance of this?
- Compare the fire of Malachi 4:1 to the fire mentioned in Luke 3:16-17. When a fire blazes, what kind of materials are refined and which turn to ash? What do we need to trust in order to become like gold treasure in the fire (see 1 Peter 1:3-9, Isaiah 43:1-2, and Daniel 3:16-26)?