“Who is there even among you who would shut the doors, So that you would not kindle fire on My altar in vain? I have no pleasure in you,” Says the Lord of hosts, “Nor will I accept an offering from your hands.
Malachi 1:10 (NKJV)
The position of leader can offer privileges and interesting opportunities, but it is not always pleasant to manage for those who occupy it. It also brings its drawbacks and its share of difficulties. A leader must be an example for his followers and he must be able to respect the laws and principles governing his group, his institution or his company. If he fails, everyone will fail with him.
In this passage, God speaks directly to the leaders, particularly the priests who offer the offerings on His altar. As verses 7 and 8 tell us, they offer unclean food, blind, lame or crippled animals. The worst thing is that they do not offer the offering with a sincere heart and they do not educate the people on the laws of the Lord related to offerings. This is why God withdrew His blessings from them. This is what happens when we disregard the offering that is due to God.
If you are in a position of spiritual leader, know that God is attentive to the offering you bring to Him and the teaching you give to His people to better serve Him and meet His requirements. Give to the Lord the glory and honor due to Him. God is not primarily interested in your offering or service, but rather in the willingness of your heart to serve Him faithfully. Submit to His will so as not to lose the blessings He has in store for you.
May the grace and peace of God be with you all.
Comments