Where is the Honor? Where is the Fear?

"A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear? says the Lord of hosts to you.. Malachi 1:6
This was to the Israelites thousands of years ago, but could easily be directed at the American church of today. Where is the honor that God deserves and demands, especially during our worship services? We dress more casually to meet with God than we do to have dinner with our corporate clients. We stroll in a few minutes late for service totally unprepared to worship. Would that happen in your work world? We accept the words of the preacher without ever opening our Bibles to verify what he says, yet every word out of the mouth of a politician is scrutinized, discussed, and mulled over for weeks. If we think that this is giving God honor, we are sadly mistaken.
Where is the fear? When is the last time you heard the preacher tell you that you are a depraved sinner? Did he tell you that you are destined for the eternal fires of hell if you don't repent and trust in Christ? Does he paint for you a picture of a thrice holy, jealous God who will share his glory with no one. Do you tremble at the thought of standing before your maker? Are you in awe of his power? If that is not the message that you are hearing at your church, maybe you should consider finding a new place to worship. God is awesomely divine and we are totally wretched. Christ is the ONLY thing that can bridge that gap, and bridging that gap is our greatest need, not godly character, good morals, grace based parenting or mutual submission. Reconciliation with the Most High God is what you need. That is the message you need to hear. Fear of the Lord is the beginning of all wisdom.
Malachi also says,"I have no pleasure in you, says the Lord of hosts, and I will not accept an offering from your hand." Don't let it come to that, friends. Seek to please the Lord by offering Him the worship that He desires and demands. Stop looking to please man and make the unbeliever comfortable. Seek God's glory first and He will be pleased and will bless you abundantly.