“Then those who feared the LORD spoke with one another. The LORD paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the LORD and esteemed his name. They shall be mine, says the LORD of hosts, in the day when I make up my treasured possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him. Then once more you shall see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve him.” – Malachi 3:16-18
Scripture reading: Psalm 25:1-22
This text emphasizes that there was a people who feared the LORD and esteemed His name. “Esteem” means to regard and to set value on something. Malachi shows us these people valued the LORD and His Person (“name”). They spoke to each other about the LORD, they respected and loved Him. This should describe every Christian! When we recognize who we are in Christ and what Christ has done to save us, obviously we value Him, we respect Him, we love Him, and we talk to others about Him. He is the most important Person to us and we esteem His Name.
Our text says the LORD paid attention and heard them. The Hebrew word translated “paid attention” means to lift the ears, as an animal does when it hears something. The word “heard” means to draw near and listen, so as not to miss a word. The LORD hears you and remembers your heart’s desire to love and serve Him. He says a book of remembrance is made and you are never forgotten. Others can forget, but not the LORD! You are treasured by Him and He will spare you when His judgment comes. Why? Because He views you as His child and just as a father spares his son, so He will spare you. How rich is His grace to us who believe in Christ! Do you fear the LORD? Do you value Christ? Do you speak about Him to others? The LORD remembers those who belong to Him.
Suggestions for prayer
Pray the LORD will grant you His grace so that you will fear and love Him in Christ. Rejoice in the assurance found in Christ as those who belong to Him.
Rev. Michael Jaatinen is the minister of Mount Zion Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church in Moncton, NB.
