My name will be great among the nations, from the rising to the setting of the sun. In every place incense and pure offerings will be brought to My name, because My name will be great among the nations,” says the LORD Almighty. Malachi 1:11
The spiritual leaders of Judah had been leading sub standard worship that perpetuated a very casual attitude toward God’s authority and sovereign power. God was NOT pleased. It was costing the people their assurance of His love, leading to hopelessness.
God’s chosen people were turning away from His commands and covenants. People of foreign lands acknowledged God and worshiped Him with greater honor than those He had redeemed from slavery and brought to the promised land.
These words, spoken by Malachi were intended to shock his hearers, but this truth is still relevant today. The heart of worship is the center of our faith in action and an indicator of spiritual health. God doesn’t need our worship, we do! He longs for it because He knows the great works and power that will result.
Happy Holiday Weekend,
Gretchen