How does He want us to behave?
The exiles have returned from 70 years of captivity. They are rebuilding the temple of God. They are re-establishing Israel. God speaks to Zechariah. He shows him many amazing and wonderful things about the future and about God’s desire to bless His people.
Yet, several times throughout the prophecies, we hear the voice of God in what He wants to see from them.
Zechariah 7:9-10
This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. 10 Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. In your hearts do not think evil of each other.’
True justice, mercy and compassion. Do not take advantage of the weak.
Hear this: In your hearts do not think evil of each other.
Again God speaks:
Zechariah 8:16-17
These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts; 17 do not plot evil against your neighbor, and do not love to swear falsely. I hate all this,” declares the Lord.
Speak the truth and render sound judgment.
Are we hearing this: “Do not plot evil against your neighbour.”
God hates it when we behave this way.
What does God want?
Zechariah 8:19
Therefore love truth and peace.
Father, help us to walk in truth. Help us to love our neighbour as ourselves. Take our pride, our jealousy, our fear, and our insecurity. Help us trust fully in You and live to honour You.
