Zechariah Speaks Powerful Life Lessons

Zechariah is the second last book in the Old Testament. Usually, when I get here I kind of rush through in order to get to Matthew. So, I have to remind myself to slow down. There are a couple of very strong lessons about how we are to live in the words of this wonderful book.

God is Faithful – Zechariah 1

People give up on marriages and relationships. We give up on our dreams and on our resolutions. We give up on our work and sometimes on our faith. But God never gives up on us!

He is ready to bless us again with his presence when we begin to seek him.

Therefore say to them, Thus declares the Lord of hosts: Return to me, says the Lord of hosts, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts.

Zechariah 1:3 (ESV)

What God requires from his people – Zechariah 7

Sometimes, we get a little consumed with what God can do for us. He does great things for us because he loves us so much. But there is an expressed expectation of what he requires from his people.

“Thus says the Lord of hosts, Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another, do not oppress the widow, the fatherless, the sojourner, or the poor, and let none of you devise evil against another in your heart.”

Zechariah 7:9–10 (ESV)

When we embrace the five requirements of these two verses, the world will change.

Five Requirements

We are to render true judgment. That means we examine all the facts – not just the ones we like.

We are to show kindness. That means we stop being so harsh with those whose viewpoints are different than ours and instead are always tender to everyone.

We are to show mercy. One of the most profound expressions of mercy is forgiveness. Another expression of mercy is compassion.

We are to avoid oppression. The prophet specifically mentions four groups of people that are often oppressed. These are disenfranchised people. Widows and orphans have little power. They are often devalued and ignored. We must embrace the powerless with encouragement.

The foreigner (NIV) or sojourner is one who does not fit in. In most cultures, he is viewed with suspicion and distrust. His civil liberties are often denied and he has little recourse to protect himself against oppression. We must be those who protect and help them.

The poor are all around us. They have always been ignored or blamed for their condition. This subtle oppression must never be expressed by followers of Jesus.

We are never to conspire of dream of evil for one another. How often have we wished harm on someone in our hearts? It’s easy to do and feels natural when we have been hurt or strongly disagree with someone but we must never do it. Asking God to help us overcome these feelings and thoughts is essential.

Get Serious

What will you do about putting these two lessons into action in your life? Start today by simply sharing this post with your friends. Let’s start a world changing movement!

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