The Lodestar

The Lord reminds the people that he is an unchanging God who remains the same eternally. James asserted that God does not vary like the phases of the celestial bodies, whose light waxes and wanes as they move around in their orbits, such as the moon's phases. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change” (James 1:17).

This aspect of the Lord, that his nature and eternal purposes do not change, is the foundation of our faith and hope. However, this does not mean that the Lord is stubborn or unresponsive in his actions. The call, “Return to me, and I will return to you” (3:7), demonstrates that God responds differently in various situations. When people respond to his call to establish their relationship with him, he will accept them wholeheartedly.

Malachi, who preached to the community that returned from exile, believed that God’s purpose was to bring blessing to the world through Abraham’s descendants and that a Davidic Messiah would not be defeated. Thus, the children of Jacob are not consumed: their existence as the restored community is evidence of God’s faithfulness.

Despite humanity’s failure, the Lord will fulfil His plans for humanity. The Messiah will come as planned. “But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall. And you shall tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet, on the day when I act, says the LORD of hosts” (Malachi 4:2—3).

The Messiah came as promised, walked the earth, healed the sick, and brought joy to those who opened their hearts to him. God does not change; he is a promise-fulfilling God, determined in his purpose. Those who trust him will never be disappointed because he is the same yesterday, today and forever.

Reflect on his faithfulness today and deepen your relationship with him. If you are encouraged by this reminder of our eternal, steadfast God, take a moment now to commit your heart anew to his purposes. Share this message with someone who needs hope, and start a spiritual journal to track God’s faithfulness in your life daily. Join us on this journey of faith, knowing that the same God who was with Malachi’s people is forever with you.

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