How Have You Loved Us?

Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026

Malachi is the last book of the Old Testament. We're almost there! Take a look at this overview video of Malachi from the Bible Project as we make final preparations for diving into the New Testament.

Malachi opens with an exchange that’s startling and blunt. God says, “I have loved you,” and Israel fires back, “How have you loved us?” (1:2). It’s the sound of a people so numbed by routine that they can no longer feel the love they’re swimming in. Their response is telling: half-blind, diseased animals tossed onto the altar (1:8); their leftovers offered to the God who gave them everything.

Malachi’s real target is spiritual complacency, not outright rebellion. The priests who were meant to guard the covenant and speak truth (2:6-7), have grown weary of holiness and treat sacred things as inconvenient busy work. It’s a warning that can be hauntingly personal for us: familiarity with God can quietly drift into contempt if we’re not careful, offering Him our leftover attention while saving our best for ourselves.

Against that backdrop, Psalm 23 stands out as a soothing reminder. Instead of a distant, unfelt love, David describes a Shepherd who leads, restores, and prepares a table. It’s a love that is intimate, present, and pursuing “goodness and mercy” all our days (23:6). One God; two very different postures toward Him. Which are you living today?

Devotional Prompts:

Where might familiarity with God be dulling your sense of His nearness?
What would it look like to bring God your “first fruits” rather than your leftovers this week?

Prayer: Shepherd God, forgive me for the seasons I’ve offered You leftovers instead of love. Awaken me again to the goodness and mercy that have followed me all my days, and let that awareness shape how I worship You today. Amen.