Love God Greatly - Made for CommunitySample

Zechariah the prophet had rebuked the Israelites earlier in the book for assigning too much meaning to the religious ritual of fasting. In their fasting, they had regarded themselves higher than God. Instead of fasting being a genuine time of seeking Him, it had become a self-absorbed meaningless ritual.

Zechariah shares with them true obedience. He lists actions that originate in the heart. The execution of justice begins with knowing the Just, Holy, and Righteous God. Giving mercy and compassion to each other begins with receiving, accepting, and recognizing the mercy and compassion of God. Demonstrating fairness to the least of the citizens begins with the recognition that those who are servants to the least are honored by God. Determination not to plan evil against brethren begins with the knowledge that God’s people are to overcome evil with good.

In order for any of these actions to be carried out, a heart transformation has to take place first. None of these actions can be done in our own will. The Holy Spirit, once we have surrendered our lives to Jesus Christ, dwells within us. He guides and leads us in the knowledge and growth of the things of God. As we grow in Christ, these actions become easier to carry out.

The Israelites’ response was a negative one. Their hearts were hardened. They refused to listen to Zechariah, and a great wrath came upon them. It was easier for the Israelites to perform the outward religious activities, such as fasting, with no inward change. But God wanted them to be transformed from the inside out. What inward transformation does the Lord want to make within you? Does He desire you to love your enemies, show forgiveness, submit to authority, open your home and heart to believers, tame your tongue, or serve the least in His kingdom? In order to become an effective servant for Jesus, we must be moved by a compassionate heart for the lost and be obedient to His call. You must yield and submit to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to change your heart. Will you?

PRAYER: Father God, soften our hearts so that they are overflowing with Your compassion. Help us to love people more than we hate where they are in life currently. Lord, draw us swiftly to You when You sense our hearts hardening to Your Word. Let Your desires, Your commands, and Your plans be lifted high above our own. In Jesus’ name. Amen.