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Daily Devotions

Malachi

Malachi 
Day 
Day 25

"Being awake and aware"

Text: Malachi 2:12

DELIBERATE DISOBEDIENCE

The LORD had made clear to Israel the danger of marrying the Canaanites. The influence from those who worship idols would be subtle but deadly. The history of the nation would reveal the problems that came because of disobedience. But Israel did not give heed, even though they had experienced so much hardship as a consequence.

“May the LORD cut off from the tents of Jacob
The man who does this, being awake and aware,
Yet who brings an offering to the LORD of hosts!”
Malachi 2:12

1. “May the LORD cut off from the tents of Jacob”

a) “The LORD”
i) His name is solemnly invoked.
ii) He will personally deal with this matter.
b) “Cut off from the tents of Jacob”
i) This is more serious than just being censured.
ii) This is a reference to being “cut off” from being part of Israel.
iii) The name “Jacob” is a reference to the time when the old patriarch did not know the LORD and had done wicked things.

2. “The man who does this, being awake and aware”

a) The commandment in mind was a reference to Deuteronomy 7:2-5.

b) There was an express commandment not to marry Canaanite people.
c) Marriage was seen as a “covenant”.
d) But there was obvious knowledge of this law, for the individual was “awake and aware”.

3. “Yet who brings an offering to the LORD of hosts!”

a) He does not show any regard for the LORD of hosts and His clear commandment.
b) Yet, he brings an offering to the LORD!
This act of presenting an offering to God was an affront to Him!