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Friday,聽December 6

Malachi 3:13-18 and Philippians 1:18b-26

Today鈥檚 passages encourage us to reflect on faithfulness and joy in the midst of waiting.

In Malachi 3:13-18, God speaks to a people who feel weary and disillusioned. They see the wicked thriving and wonder if their efforts to serve God are in vain. But God assures them that He sees those who honor Him. He calls them His 鈥渢reasured possession鈥� and assures them that their faithfulness will not go unnoticed. This passage provides hope and assurance that God鈥檚 justice will ultimately prevail.

This message of trust in God鈥檚 timing is echoed in Paul鈥檚 words in Philippians 1:18b-26. Writing from prison, Paul rejoices, not because his circumstances are good, but because he knows that Christ is being exalted. He expresses a profound truth: 鈥淔or to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.鈥� Paul鈥檚 joy is anchored not in his immediate situation but in his relationship with Christ. His life, whether in freedom or chains, is valuable because it serves the purposes of God.

During Advent, we are often reminded of waiting鈥攚aiting for Christmas, waiting for Christ鈥檚 return, waiting for God to move in our lives. In our waiting, these Scriptures encourage us to stay faithful. Though the world may sometimes seem unjust, and though we may face trials, God sees us, knows us, and treasures us. And like Paul, we can rejoice, knowing that our lives have purpose in Christ, whether in times of plenty or in times of need.

As you reflect on today鈥檚 passages, I encourage you to consider an area of your life where you feel discouraged or weary in your faith journey. Write a prayer or journal entry offering that situation to God, trusting in His faithfulness. Consider sharing with a friend, colleague, or prayer partner who can encourage and pray with you during this Advent season.

Sydney Brown
Dean, GBP School of Graduate Studies; Professor, College of Education