Purification: A Study in MalachiSample

What does it say?

Israel had acted treacherously against one another and their wives. Therefore, God stopped accepting their sacrifices.

What does it mean?

Malachi understood that God’s design for marriage was that a husband and wife would form such an intimate bond with each other that they would be as “one flesh” (Gen. 2:24). They sinned against God by breaking their solemn vows to be faithful to each other, love each other, and help each other for a lifetime. Through Malachi, God expressed His displeasure that the Israelites had instead intermarried with people who worshiped false gods – polluting the moral and spiritual purity of Israel and raising a generation of children who may not follow in the ways of the Lord.

How should I respond?

While Satan wants to destroy marriages and lead children astray, God wants healthy marriages and families that point children toward Him. How often do you pray for the homes in your church and community? Make a list of seven families you know, and then pray for one family each day of the week. Ask God to help marriage vows be honored deeply and faithfully. Ask Him to bless the children and guide the parents to lead them toward God in everything said and done. Who can you ask to pray that your marriage and family will honor God?