Chapter 879 of 1163

MALACHI 1

Six times the Lord refers to His name (vv. 6, 11, 14), which means His character and His reputation. He wants His name to be magnified in all the earth (v. 5). The priests, however, despised His name, and He rebuked them for it. How do we despise the Lord’s name?

We show disrespect to His name by questioning His love (vv. 1–5). The times were tough, and the people blamed the situation on God. But their own sins had created their problems (Hag. 1), and God was willing to bless if they were willing to repent.

We despise His name by doing His work in a careless manner (vv. 7–11). They were bored with their blessings, and doing the work of the Lord wearied them.

Along with that, we despise the Lord’s name when we offer Him less than our best (vv. 12–14). They offered defective sacrifices, animals that they would never give as gifts to their friends. They even brought sacrifices that were stolen! “I will not take what is yours for the Lord,” said David, “nor offer burnt offerings with that which costs me nothing” (1 Chron. 21:24).

Beware when you get bored with your blessings and start taking for granted the privilege of ministry. God may take your privileges away from you.

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