Take a quick look at the first two verses in Malachi. Notice anything significant? The very first thing that God wanted to be sure his people knew was that he loved them. God had a lot of negative things to say to these people. He had a lot of scolding to do. But first he said, “I love you.” In your relationships, especially with your family, is it easier to concentrate on what bugs you about them? What drives you nuts? Or just the fact that deep down you really love them? Keeping love at the front of your mind will make a big difference with how you treat others. Try to remember that when you’re at home today.
The most popular girls at school go to parties and do things that I don’t. I’m beginning to think the only way a boy is ever going to like me is if I go to those parties too. I get teased and called a prude. How bad can it be to join the crowd?
Rachael
Dear Rachael,
Don’t give in! Those girls may look happy, but girls (and guys) who are involved in what you have suggested often suffer depression and are vulnerable to many diseases as well as other bad things. Allowing yourself to be used by someone who will just be moving on to someone else in a few weeks or months is NOT a good trade off.
You may get some encouragement from Malachi 3:14–18. Those who were doing wrong seemed to be having such great lives while those who were obedient to God were walking around like mourners. But God does make a distinction between the righteous and the wicked. He knows and remembers those who are faithful to him.
Do you want to be remembered in ten years as a party girl or as a young woman who honored God and respected herself?
Jordan
Malachi
Who, Me?
The descendants of the captives from Babylon had become indifferent to God. But no one can fool God.