Then those who revered the LORD spoke with one another. The LORD took note and listened, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who revered the LORD and thought on his name. They shall be mine, says the LORD of hosts, my special possession on the day when I act, and I will spare them as parents spare their children who serve them. Then once more you shall see the different between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve him.

Malachi 3:16-18

Though Israel had long been the object of God’s love, they no longer returned His love. God listed the ways His people had offended His love through their disobedience. Israel’s response was to question God. The LORD exposed their many blind spots. He did this so that they might repent and accept His love, and return it with wholehearted obedience. We too are often half-hearted in our faith, appearing to love and serve God but really loving and serving ourselves. God looks for people who reverence Him by maintaining His two spiritual practices: speaking to each other about Him, and meditating on His wonderful attributes. The first is fellowship with God’s people; the second is fellowship with God Himself. These kind of worshippers are God’s "jewels." Are you one of them?

To love God is to obey God.

Our Daily Bread – December 2, 2004