Malachi identified a fallacious thought pattern among many of his people: They complained that nonbelievers seemed to have it better than believers. “Evildoers not only prosper but they put God to the test and they escape” (Malachi 3:15, English Standard Version).
His response to this complaint is simple: You need to have some perspective.
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.
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 spareth his own son that serveth him.
Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.
Malachi 3:16-18, 3 Nephi 24:16-18
Of course the wicked sometimes prosper temporarily. The fruits of faithfulness don’t always come quickly, but they do come. So how do we maintain that perspective in the meantime? One key is the very first phrase in this passage: “They that feared the Lord spake often to one another.”
Relationships require consistent communication. How often do we realize it’s been too long since we’ve spoken with a certain friend or relative. We recognize intuitively that the relationship can only thrive if we interact on a regular basis. No wonder the Savior commanded church members to “meet together oft” (3 Nephi 18:22; see also 4 Nephi 1:12, Moroni 6:5-6). It’s not just about hearing the word of the Lord and partaking of the sacrament. It’s about building relationships with fellow believers. Those relationships steady us and fortify our faith as we see the gospel in action in the lives of our friends.
Today, I will strengthen my relationships with fellow church members. I will remember that talking with other believers can expand my perspective and increase my faith.
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