Worship which costs us nothing benefits us nothing!!

The Book of Malachi is the final book of the Old Testament. The core values in the Book of Malachi are relevant for us today. Many times in this writing, the prophet uses a negative reality to emphasize a positive core value and then presents it as an available possibility. The Israelites, in Malachi’s day did not live up to the standards set by God. Chapter 2 is full of accusations against their hypocrisy, treachery in the home, violations of temple regulations, marrying people who worshiped foreign gods, divorce, and false teachings. The entire nation dishonoured God.

After returning from Persian exile and experiencing an initial revival of temple worship and righteous living, the Israelites grew apathetic and complacent. Shortcuts were being taken. Inappropriate offering were being offered as sacrifices unto God. The priests were taking bribes from the people, and family relationships had been compromised. While on the surface things generally seem OK, on the inside a cancer of complacency is eating away at the Israelites commitment. The Prophet Malachi is sent by God to call the people back to fidelity (Malachi 2:13-16).

Just like the Israelites, almost without realizing it, any one of us can slip into showing contempt for God's name through offering only what is second best and allowing our worship to become apathetic. Worship which costs us nothing benefits us nothing. Particularly in tough times, we can find ourselves just going through the motions and for our hearts to be cold as stone. It‟s all too easy to say 'Do I have to give up my Sunday's to go to church?' Do I have to give up my time to help with this group or serve in this way? Why should I?

I love what King David says concerning worship/offering. In II Samuel 24 and in I Chronicles 21, we find parallel versions of the same story. In verse 24 of each chapter, King David makes the statement, “I will not take what is yours for the Lord, nor offer burnt offerings with that which cost me nothing.” When King David spoke this to Araunah, I believe it reflects what worship means to King David. Let us examine the offerings and worship that we bring to Jesus. Let us not give that which is heartless and meaningless, but let us give our all to Him.

Be Blessed.