How does Malachi 3:13 challenge us to examine our words against God? Setting the Scene in Malachi Malachi prophesies to a post-exilic community that has grown cold. Sacrifices are careless, marriages are crumbling, and tithes are withheld. Into this setting, God speaks plainly about their attitudes—and He pinpoints their speech. The Confrontation in 3:13 “ ‘Your words against Me have been harsh,’ says the LORD. ‘Yet you ask, “What have we spoken against You?” ’ ” (Malachi 3:13) • “Harsh” carries the idea of being strong, stubborn, even insolent. • Their offense is not ignorance but presumption—thinking they can accuse God without consequence. • The people are so dulled that they genuinely ask, “What have we spoken?” illustrating how unnoticed sin can become normal. What Does “Harsh Words” Look Like Today? • Questioning God’s justice: “Why bother obeying if evil people prosper?” (cf. Malachi 3:14–15) • Complaining about God-given responsibilities—marriage vows, church service, generosity. • Minimizing sin by calling it a “struggle” instead of rebellion. • Speaking cynically about answered prayer or God’s timing. • Spreading doubt among believers: “Nothing changes; revival is a fantasy.” Why Our Words Matter to God • Words reveal the heart (Matthew 12:34). • We will give account for every careless word (Matthew 12:36–37). • Speech can bring life or death (Proverbs 18:21). • The tongue steers the whole person, like a rudder directs a ship (James 3:3–5). Steps to Align Our Speech with Scripture 1. Examine: • Keep a journal of recurring complaints or cynical remarks. • Ask a trusted believer to speak truthfully about patterns they hear in you. 2. Confess: • Agree with God that “harsh words” are sin, not personality. 3. Replace: • Memorize verses that exalt God’s character (Psalm 145; Lamentations 3:22–24). • Speak gratitude aloud each morning (1 Thessalonians 5:18). 4. Guard: • Slow down before responding (James 1:19). • Pause social media posting until motives are screened through Philippians 4:8. 5. Encourage: • Intentionally speak life into someone daily—write a note, send a text (Ephesians 4:29). Encouragement to Speak in Faith Malachi’s audience eventually included a “remnant” who feared the LORD and spoke with one another, and God “listened and heard” (Malachi 3:16). The same Lord records faith-filled words today. Let’s ensure our tongues testify to His goodness, so that when He “makes up His treasured possession,” our conversations will be found faithful. |
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