The Day of the Lord: Justice and Healing
Sunday, November 17th: Malachi 4:1-6
Bible Verse:
“Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and that day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the Lord Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them.”
— Malachi 4:1 (EHV)
Devotion:
Malachi’s message might sound a little scary at first. He’s talking about a day when God will bring justice to the world, and everyone who does evil will face consequences. But if we keep reading, we see that God is also bringing something beautiful: a new beginning for those who trust in Him. While there will be a day of judgment, there is also a promise of joy and healing for God’s people.
It’s important to remember that God is fair. He knows everything we do and say, and He will always do what’s right. For those who love God and follow His ways, this day of judgment isn’t something to fear. Instead, we can look forward to the promise of peace and healing that comes from trusting in Him.
Questions to think about:
1. Why is it important that God is fair and just?
2. How can we trust God, even when things around us seem unfair?
3. What is something you can do to live in a way that pleases God?
Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for being fair and just. Help me to trust You and live in a way that honors You every day. Amen.
Activity Idea:
Draw a picture of what it looks like when God brings peace and healing to the world.
Full Bible Reference:
“‘Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘Not a root or a branch will be left to them. But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Then you will trample on the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I act,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘Remember the law of my servant Moses, the decrees and laws I gave him at Horeb for all Israel. See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.’”
— Malachi 4:1-6 (EHV)