Discerning Between The Righteous And The Wicked

The prophet Malachi warned the Jews that they “have been stout” (v. 13), or were speaking proudly against the Lord. They complained that it is vain to serve Him (v. 14). Their haughtiness has blinded them (Ps 14:3), that they no longer seek God! They have forgotten God’s goodness in protecting them and providing for their needs (Ps 73:1). After showing them His great love, they have the audacity to ask “wherein hast thou loved us?” (Mal 1:2).

Yet God fulfilled His promise to return them to their homeland and perform His “good word” toward them (Jer 29:10), after their Babylonian captivity (Jer 25:11). Surely, there was a great amount of apathy and spiritual decline among the people (Zeph 1:12). They continued to disobey God’s commands by following the ways of the heathens (2 Ki 17:8). Thus, they were unable to “discern between the righteous and the wicked.” Their corrupt practices required God’s correction and guidance! Sadly, many people today are trusting their hearts more (Jer 17:9), than trusting God (Prov 3:5). In order for us to “discern between good and bad” (1 Ki 3:9), we must be in agreement with God’s word (Amos 3:3), and His will for our lives (Rom 12:2).

Spiritual maturity starts by having “the mind of Christ” (1 Cor 2:16). This mind of humility and submission to God’s will (Php 2:8), causes us to prioritize Him by walking “in the Spirit” (Gal 5:25). Then we can understand “the deep things of God” (1 Cor 2:10). Some bible-believing Christians mature through prayers and Bible study (2 Tim 2:15). While others mature because of the troubles, trials, and tragedies that they may encounter (Rom 5:3). How we respond to adversities will reveal how much we are growing “in grace” (2 Pet 3:18). God wants us to mature so we can get closer to Him (Jms 4:8), and that His Spirit can give us the wisdom necessary “to discern both good and evil” (Heb 5:14)! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera