Malachi 3:16
“Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A faithful remnant who fear God encourage one another, and God listens and records their names in a book of remembrance.
What Does Malachi 3:16 Mean?
Amid the cynicism, a different voice rises. 'They that feared the LORD spake often one to another' -- a faithful remnant who, instead of grumbling, encouraged each other and treasured God's name. And heaven took notice: 'the LORD hearkened, and heard it,' and 'a book of remembrance was written before him' for those who feared Him. Their quiet faithfulness did not go unseen.
This is a tender and beautiful turn in the book. Over against the loud complaints of the discouraged, a few held fast, and God Himself bent down to listen. The image of a 'book of remembrance' assures us that no act of faithfulness is ever lost or forgotten; God records the names of those who honor Him. There is great encouragement here for everyone who feels their devotion goes unnoticed in a cynical world. God hears the conversations of those who love Him, and He keeps a lasting memory of every heart that thinks upon His name. The faithful are never forgotten.
In the Original Language
sefer zikkaron (סֵפֶר זִכָּרוֹן), 'book of remembrance' -- a record kept before God of those who fear Him, that their faithfulness might never be forgotten.