Focus
Pay attention to the tension in your body. Let go of it and any expectations to do anything other than God’s will today. Prepare yourself to hear God’s word.
Read
13 You have spoken harsh words against me, says the Lord. Yet you say, “How have we spoken against you?” 14 You have said, “It is vain to serve God. What do we profit by keeping his command or by going about as mourners before the Lord of hosts? 15 Now we count the arrogant happy; evildoers not only prosper, but when they put God to the test they escape.”
16 Then those who revered the Lord spoke with one another. The Lord took note and listened, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who revered the Lord and thought on his name. 17 They shall be mine, says the Lord of hosts, my special possession on the day when I act, and I will spare them as parents spare their children who serve them. 18 Then once more you shall see the difference between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve him.
Reflect
Studies show that people who have regular checkups with a doctor, even when they are well, live longer, have healthier lives, and discover and contain diseases more quickly than those who do not. Yet I still have a habit of going to the doctor only when things are not going well. Going to God is sometimes a similar situation. This is why it is important for us to intentionally take time every day to pray, study, and listen. God wants to hear our prayers of concern, but it is just as important when times are good to give thanks and acknowledge where our blessings come from.
One thing Jesus doesn’t promise us: “Follow me and you will never have troubles with this world.” If life is good now, just wait; it will change. The question in Malichi is “What good is it to keep the commands of the Lord?” When we spend time with God when times are good, it is like going to the doctor for a checkup so when the tough times hit, we will be in a better position to handle them.
Pray
God, give us the discipline, commitment and dedication to seek you every day. Amen.
