My husband loved to give me jewellery. On our fifteenth anniversary, he surprised me with topaz earrings and necklace. I recently found the photo that we took at the lodge near Yosemite National Park. My head is proudly tilted to display the earrings. I'm touching the necklace with one hand to make sure that it's noticed.

For our twenty-fifth anniversary, he got down on his knees as I sat at the table and proposed to me — again. Then, he held out boxes with diamond earrings and a new wedding ring.

We often shopped at a large store known for its quality jewellery. He'd guide me over to the glass cases. "Anything here that you'd like?" Occasionally, he'd buy me another lovely present.

I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I was his jewel. Since he passed away, I have these as a remembrance of his love.

This all came rushing back when I recently read Malachi chapter 3, where God declares His mercy for the Israelites and invites them to repent for not keeping His ordinances and for robbing Him of tithes and offerings. He accuses them of using harsh words against Him, saying that it was useless to serve Him, because the wicked prosper.

Malachi 3:16-17 – Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord listened and heard them; So a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and who meditate on His name. "They shall be Mine," says the Lord of hosts, "on the day that I make them My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him." (NKJV)

Note that "those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord listened." He loves to see true fellowship and love when His children get together to worship and listen to Him. God promises not only to remember their change of heart but also to write it down. Writing implies permanence — this is a promise that God will not forget. Finally, He declares them to be His jewels — something that, like jewellery from my husband, has earthly value which we can grasp.

As Christians, we are indeed His jewels: made by God alone, durable, prized for our value, found all over the world in all different sizes and types, and often unpolished and in need of a refining process.

When we are feeling discouraged, unloved, or downhearted, let's remember: we are God's jewels. What do you want to be today: diamond, sapphire, emerald, garnet, amethyst, pearl? Whatever you choose, remember that we are loved and cherished by a loving and forgiving God.

Zechariah 9:16 – The Lord their God will save them in that day, as the flock of His people. For they shall be like the jewels of a crown, lifted like a banner over His land. (NKJV)

Prayer: Father, help us to remember our special status and to guard that as we would protect a special piece of jewellery. We want to honour You, love You, and live a life worthy of a jewel in Your crown. Amen.

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About the author:

Sharon Cook <craftercook@gmail.com>
Apache Junction, Arizona, USA
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