How Have You Loved Us? (Malachi 1:1-5)

HOW HAVE YOU LOVED US?

(MALACHI 1:1-5)

God’s love is demonstrated not in keeping you from trials, but in doing whatever is necessary to save you.

• God Shows His Love by Conquering Our Enemies (vv. 2-5)

• God Shows His Love by Humbling Us (vv. 2-3)

• God Shows His Love by Bearing Our Burden (v. 1; John 3:16)

Discussion Starters

Monday—“Oracle” (v. 1) is best translated “burden.” What is a burden? Why is the Lord burdened?

Tuesday—Why is Israel questioning whether or not God loves them? (v. 2) What are unmet expectations? How have you dealt with unmet expectations in your life?

Wednesday—How is God’s judgment on the Edomites proof of his love for Israel? (vv. 3-4; Genesis 12:3) Which of your enemies has God conquered to show his love for you?

Thursday—In Genesis 32, God wrestles with Jacob and leaves him crippled? Is this an act of love or hatred? Why? What are some ways that God has crippled you out of love?

Friday—What is the greatest proof of God’s love? (John 3:16) Is there anything greater God could do to prove his love? So why don’t we always see it his love?