Proverbs 3:9-10

In Malachi 3:6-12, Malachi accuses the people. He says that they have stolen from God. This is because they have not given their gifts for God’s work.

The truth is that all our possessions belong to God. He made the world. So he made everything that we have. Our own lives belong to him. As Christians, we should be generous. We should give for God’s work. We should also give to help poor people.

People may say, ‘If I give, then I shall not have enough for myself.’ We should be sensible, but we must also trust God. God says, ‘I do not need your animals. Every animal in the forest is mine. I own the cows on 1000 hills.’ (Psalms 50:9-10)

If we give our money for God’s work, then God will provide for us. Jesus said, ‘If you give to God, then he will give to you. He will provide plenty of food for you. If you are generous, then God will be generous with you.’ (Luke 6:38).

God does not need our wealth. However, he chooses to work with us. We should be glad to give to God. ‘God loves a joyful giver.’ (2 Corinthians 9:7)

As we give to other people, God gives good things to us. ‘… I will open heaven. I will give good things to you. You will receive so many good things, that you cannot find space for them.’ (Malachi 3:10)

v11 My son, do not be angry when God teaches you.

Do not dislike it when he speaks strictly to you.

v12 God speaks strictly to people whom he loves.

He is like a father. He speaks strictly to his favourite son.