Through the centuries God’s people have disobeyed His laws and wandered from His commands, but have sought forgiveness and returned to His outstretched arms.
The people of Malachi’s day were different from others because they had the nerve to imply that they had done nothing wrong. (Similar to people of today’s society- everyone does what is right in His own eyes)
Malachi 3:7-13 LBT
“Says the Lord Almighty, ‘Come I will forgive you.’ “
[But the people say,] “We have never gone away.” Malachi 3:7
[God] “—–‘You have robbed me.’ ” v. 8
[The people] ” ‘What do you mean? When did we ever rob you?’ “
[God]” ‘You have said harsh things against Me,’ “
[The people] “What have we said against you?’ ” v.13
You cannot return to God unless you first of all know that you have walked away. Recognition of our own sins must be the first step toward forgiveness. Forgiveness then brings healing and healing brings strength for the day in Christ.
“If my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and TURN from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
God is waiting to heal us, but we must take the first step.
Have a blessed day!
In Christian love,
Diane