Malachi 4 (NIV)
Read by: Tyshawn Gardner
We’ve all heard the phrase, “Our God is a God of second chances.” But what about third chances? Fourth? Fifth? At what point does God say, “Ok, that’s it. No more chances.” Today’s passage provides a picture of the future and a reminder of God’s character. Yes, “It’s coming,” the prophet says. The Day of the Lord: Judgment. Evil purged, trampled and destroyed. And also healing, renewal, restoration for those who love him. Some of us might feel more inclined to long for that day. Others of us might secretly dread it. And yet the door of repentance is still open. The invitation is still on the table. The LORD, still unchanging, has not forgotten his covenant. The justice of God is not like that of the world. Yes, he will punish evil, but his compassion, his long-suffering, loyal love almost seem crazy to us. Sometimes we want to say, “C’mon, Lord, it’s enough. Don’t give them any more chances.” But he says in reply, “Hang on, just a minute more. Don’t close the door yet.” And so we wait... And long... And hope... And repent...
As you listen to the passage read aloud, ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you.
----------REFLECT----------
1. What did you hear in the passage? Was there a word or phrase that stood out to you?
2. As you reflect on the passage, is there someone who comes to your mind—maybe someone you’ve given up on—for whom the door is still open? Bring them to the Lord in prayer today.
3. Take some time today to sit with the words of this passage. If there is something specific God has spoken to you, take some time to process that alone or with a friend.
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