Turn the hearts of the parents to their children

Turn the hearts of the parents to their children

Scripture:

“Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire, ” says the Lord Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them. Malachi 4:1

But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Malachi 4:2

“See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. ⁶ He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.” Malachi 4:5-6

Observation:

In the first Scripture, there is a prophecy of the coming of Judgment day, and there is a vivid imagery of fire and burning. Two characteristics of those destined for judgment are highlighted – the arrogant and those who do evil. The world does not view arrogance as a crime. The rich and famous have a tendency to look down on others, to view themselves as better than the rest of mankind. The arrogant think they have made it on their own, and do not need God. The Lord detests the proud. We must be careful not to let arrogance and pride become part of our character.

In contrast, the second Scripture focuses on those who revere God. If we respect God, it will show in our character. Those who fear God stay away from evil, and they look to God for hope and mercy. God rewards them with rays of healing like the sun gives life to the day. The image of frolicking, well-fed calves give us the idea of joy, contentment and abundance which God gives those who love Him.

In the third Scripture, there is the prophecy of the coming of Elijah which is partially fulfilled in John the Baptist. In the end times, some bible scholars interpret that Elijah will be one of the two witnesses who will stand up against the Anti-Christ just before the return of our Lord Jesus. In verse 6, we see the importance that the Lord places in having peace and reconciliation between children and their parents. Even in the 10 commandments, God promises that honoring one’s parents will result in long life and blessing. It is important for us to pray and work for peace in the family.

Parents these days have little time for their children because of work or entertainment. Children too are engrossed in their own worlds and have little time for parents. There is an urgency to restore the unity and bond in the family

Application:

Beware of arrogance of the heart, which leads to downfall, and judgment. Set our hearts to revere God, to give Him the great respect and honor due to Him. He rewards those who are faithful and true to Him and respect Him for the great God He is. Recognize the importance of family relationships in God’s eyes. Pray and work for the peace of the family between parents and children, husband and wife, brothers and sisters. Parents should make time for children, and children should respect their parents.

Prayer:

Forgive me O Lord, for the times where pride and arrogance have clouded my heart. Give me a new humble heart O Lord. Let me always revere You for the great God that You are and hope in You for mercy and salvation. Let there be peace in my family I pray. Empower me that I might be a peacemaker in my family. Teach me to make time O Lord for my children, and teach me to honor my parents. In Jesus name, Amen.