Daily Bible Reading – December 2021: God’s Word of JoySample

Daily Bible Reading – December 2021: God’s Word of Joy

DAY 16 OF 31

December 16

Introduction

The people had been questioning God’s justice (2:17) and the usefulness of serving God (3:13-15) since those who were evil were getting away with their behavior. God announces that a messenger will come to purify the Temple and the priests. Evildoers will be judged, and the faithful will be declared the LORD’s own. 

Today’s Scripture Reading 

Malachi 3:1-18

Today’s Key Verse:  Malachi 3:17

“They will be my people,” says the LORD Almighty. “On the day when I act, they will be my very own. I will be merciful to them as parents are merciful to the children who serve them.”  

Reflect

For Malachi, the “messenger” is someone who will come to prepare the way for the Lord’s coming. In Christian tradition, this passage about the LORD’s messenger is interpreted as referring to John the Baptist (see Mark 1:2). What will the messenger do (verses 2-4)? Who will be judged (verse 5)?  How were the people cheating God (verses 8, 9)? Reread verses 16-18. What do they say about God’s mercy?

Pray

Almighty God, you know my inmost thoughts. Trusting in your love and mercy, I humbly turn to you and ask that you purify and cleanse my heart. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Couriers

Tomorrow’s Reading

Malachi 4:1-6: The Day of the LORD is announced.


Day 15Day 17

About this Plan

Daily Bible Reading – December 2021: God’s Word of Joy

Daily Bible Reading is designed to facilitate consistent interaction with Scripture. It includes background information on each day’s Scripture passage and key verse for meditation, reflection questions to help you dive deeper into Scripture, a prayer and prayer concern to help you connect to God and be of spiritual support to others. Journey with us this month as we explore the theme “God’s Word of Joy.”

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