October 16, 2011 (Malachi 3-4; Psalm 148; Acts 5)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “You have said, ‘It is vain to serve God; and what profit is it that we have kept His charge, and that we have walked in mourning before the Lord of host?” Malachi 3:14 NASB
Observation: The children of Israel became arrogant with God. They got to the point that they said, what’s the use in serving God, all these others do evil and they seem to be blessed. What has it profited us to live under such restraints ordered by God? The doers of wickedness test God with their rebellion and then escape.
Application: When we take our eyes off Christ our vision becomes distorted. I work hard, I pray, I tithe, I go to church, I do my best to treat others the way I would want to be treated, and yet things still don’t seem to go my way. Then I look at my enemy and they seem to prosper in spite of all the evil they do! Where is the God of justice? What’s the use in striving to live like Christ? There is no justice in this life! Have you ever felt like this? If we’re honest, we all probably have at some time or another. But this is not the time or place to give up, this is the time and place to hold on! To serve God is the most profitable life you could ever live! His benefits are out of this world!
Prayer: Father, thank You so much for Your mercy and grace that sustains me! Forgive me for feeling at times like serving You is in vain. You have proven time and time again how much You love me. You protect and bless at the appropriate times! You are on time, all the time! Help me Lord come to the throne of grace boldly, yet humbly. The rewards of serving You are greater than all the riches in the world. You’re my Rock, my Fortress, my provision and my deliverer. In Jesus name, Amen.