In our study of Malachi 1 we discovered what to appreciate and what to avoid in our relationship with God. Now let’s consider what we should appropriate. Verse 6 implies that since a son honors his father and a servant his master, believers should honor their heavenly Father and respect Him as their Master.
How does one do this? Make sure everything in your life is authentic. Don’t play games with God. Don’t dumb down or cheapen your relationship with God. Malachi 1:14 declares, “‘Cursed is the cheat who has an acceptable male in his flock and vows to give it, but then sacrifices a blemished animal to the Lord. For I am a great king,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and my name is to be feared among the nations.’” The world is watching and listening. Your actions speak volumes about your relationship with God.
Your words are compared to your professed commitment. That’s why James 3:9-10 explains, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.”
Clearly, Malachi indicates what to appropriate from his book: honor your heavenly Father, respect your spiritual Master, and reverence the great king, the Lord Almighty. The world will take note and some will turn to God.