Zechariah 7-8 God and People Notice
When others hear my voice or see my actions, what does it tell them about my Christian walk and talk? The leaders in Bethel came to inquire about their practices of fasting. They expected to hear that all they were doing was righteous and pleasing to God, but they were in for a rude awakening! God responded not with words of affirmation but words that questioned their hearts and motives. Were you really fasting for me, or was it just for show? Did others see a genuinely repentant heart? Did your actions show that you were truly doing it for God? “OUCH!” 🙁 God revealed that they were hypocrites in heart and actions. How about me? Do I go to church, read my Bible, and speak words of kindness to get my “ticket punched” with God, or do I do it because the Holy Spirit has spoken and I have responded willingly and with a true heart?

When our heart is pure and righteous, we do that which God loves, and others take note! They want to know why God is blessing us. They want to know the secret of our peace. They say, “let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.” [Zech 8:23] Are others asking those questions of you and me? Are we ready to answer anyone who asks us about the hope we possess? [1Pet 3:15]