“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner, and do not fear me, says the LORD of hosts.” – Malachi 3:5 

Scripture reading: Psalm 40:1-12

The LORD is a purifier of His people, but He also declares that He will draw near to judge those who continue in rebellion and sin against Him. The LORD gives a representative list of vice, each of which was a breaking of His law and a cause for judgment. Sorcerers refer to those who use occult practices. Adulterers are those who are unfaithful in the covenant of marriage and spiritually unfaithful to the LORD. Those who swear falsely are those who tell lies in personal relationships and those who commit perjury under oath in court. Those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner. These are the wealthy and powerful who take advantage of those who are weak, vulnerable and unable to defend themselves.

The underlying problem that creates all the other problems is that they do not fear the LORD. This is God’s covenant people and not some heathen nation! He is the LORD of Hosts, the God Who saved them, restored them and provides for them. He calls them out for their wicked ways. This should make us pause and consider how we think, live and act as Christians in our generation. He comes in judgment. If you have gone astray, return to Him in true repentance and faith. Fear the LORD and recognize that He sent His Son, Jesus, to save and restore you. Look to Him to help you live for His glory.

Suggestions for prayer

Thank the LORD He has taken us from the pit of destruction and placed us on the Rock which is Christ. Thank Him that Jesus saves us from judgment and restores us to a right relationship with our God.

Rev. Michael Jaatinen is the minister of Mount Zion Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church in Moncton, NB.