"And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spares his own son that serves him." (Malachi 3:17)
The
jewels of the Lord are not rubies and diamonds, but rather are "they
that feared the LORD" and who "spake often one to another." Instead of
being mounted in a crown or other adornment as precious stones would be,
these jewels will be listed in a very special book. "A book of
remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and
that thought upon his name" (v.16). What a blessing it would be if, when
we get to heaven, we should find our names written in that special book
of God's memories! God does take note of our times of spiritual
fellowship with other believers—especially, no doubt, when they occur
during times of stress and worldly opposition.
This word (Hebrew cegullah) is not the usual word for "jewels," more commonly being rendered "peculiar treasures." For example, Psalm 135:4
says that "the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his
peculiar treasure." The word suggests treasure carefully guarded in a
safe place. The word is translated simply "special" in Deuteronomy 7:6, "a special people unto himself."
Note
in particular Exodus 19:5-6: "Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice
indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto
me above all people: for all the earth is mine: And ye shall be unto me a
kingdom of priests, and an holy nation."
Peter uses the same language in writing to prepare Christians for imminent times of persecution. "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9).
Sing Praise To The Lord
Mark Chandler
