Welcome to the next Bible Study of the book of Zechariah, Chapter 7:

Verse 1: “And it came to pass in the fourth year of king Darius, that the Word of the LORD came unto Zechariah in the fourth day of the ninth month, even in Chisleu.”

This verse sets the context for the message Zechariah is about to deliver. It reminds us that GOD’S marvelous, righteous Word comes to us in specific times and places, reflecting His sovereignty over history. The timing of GOD’S revelations reveals His perfect divine plan. It encourages us to be aware and attentive to GOD’S Word in our lives, which can come in various seasons.

Verse 2: “When they had sent unto the house of GOD Sherezer and Regemmelech, and their men, to pray before the LORD,”

Here we see the importance of prayer and seeking GOD’S guidance. Sherezer and Regemmelech represent those who desire to connect with GOD. It reminds us that reaching out to GOD through prayer is a vital aspect of our spiritual journey, showing our desire to understand HIS divine will and intentions.

Verse 3: “And to speak unto the priests which were in the house of the LORD of hosts, and to the prophets, saying, Should I weep in the fifth month, separating myself, as I have done these so many years?”

The question posed reflects a deep yearning for understanding the significance of mourning and religious observance. It encourages us to reflect on our practices and tradition are they still meaningful? God desires authenticity over ritual when it comes to our worship and lifestyle.

Verse 4-5: “Then came the Word of the LORD of hosts unto me, saying, Speak unto all the people of the land, and to the priests, saying, When ye fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh month, even those seventy years, did ye at all fast unto me, even to me?”

GOD questions the motive behind their fasting. It’s not about the act itself, but the heart behind it. This challenges us to examine our own acts of worship and ensure they are directed towards honoring our almighty GOD, rather than merely following traditions or external expectations.

Verse 6: “And when ye did eat, and when ye did drink, did not ye eat for yourselves, and drink for yourselves?”

This verse reinforces the idea that our daily actions and choices should ultimately reflect our devotion to GOD. It encourages us to recognize that everything we do should have a purpose greater than ourselves, glorifying GOD in all aspects of our lives.

Verse 7: “Should ye not hear the Words which the LORD hath cried by the former prophets, when Jerusalem was inhabited and in prosperity, and the cities thereof round about her, when men inhabited the south and the plain?”

GOD urges the people to remember the lessons of history and to heed the counsel of the prophets who came before. It emphasizes the importance of listening to GOD’S voice through Scripture, as it instructs and guides us in times of both abundance and trial.

Verse 8-9: “And the Word of the LORD came unto Zechariah, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and show mercy and compassions every man to his brother:”

GOD’S command to “execute true judgment” and “show mercy” captures the essence of justice and compassion. This verse challenges us to live out our faith through action, advocating for justice while also extending grace and kindness to others, reflecting GOD’S character to the world around us.

Verse 10: “And oppress not the widow, nor the fatherless, the stranger, nor the poor; and let none of you imagine evil against his brother in your heart.”

This is a call to social justice, emphasizing the need for protection of the vulnerable in society. It inspires us to be advocates for the marginalized, reminding us that our treatment of others, especially the less fortunate, is a direct reflection of our relationship with GOD.

Verse 11-12:
“But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear. Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the Words which the LORD of hosts hath sent in his spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the LORD of hosts.”

These verses highlight the consequences of disobedience and hard-heartedness. They serve as a warning against ignoring GOD’S voice. It challenges us to remain sensitive to GOD’S leading and to cultivate hearts that are soft and receptive to His instruction.

Verse 13: “Therefore it is come to pass, that as he cried, and they would not hear; so they cried, and I would not hear, saith the LORD of hosts:”

This verse underscores a profound truth: our responsiveness to GOD affects our relationship with Him. When we fail to listen to Him, we should not be surprised if our prayers go seemingly unanswered. It encourages us to remain humble and open to GOD’S guidance at all times.

Verse 14: “But I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations whom they knew not. Thus the land was desolate after them, that no man passed through nor returned: for they laid the pleasant land desolate.”

The consequences of rejecting GOD ultimately led to desolation. This serves as a reminder of the importance of living in covenant with GOD, acknowledging that our choices bear fruit, whether it leads to blessing or desolation. It inspires us to choose faithfulness to GOD for both our lives and our communities.

Let us Pray:

Dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER, we thank You for Your marvelous, righteous Word, which is alive and speaks to our hearts. Help us to be attentive to Your guidance and to reflect Your infinite love and justice in our lives. Forgive us for times we have ignored Your voice or acted out of selfishness. Let us be a people of mercy and compassion, ever sensitive to the needs of those around us. May Your truth fulfilling Holy Spirit soften our hearts and draw us closer to You, empowering us to live out our faith authentically. Thank you for hearing our prayers, dear LORD, almighty HEAVENLY FATHER. We pray all these things throughout the mighty, glorious, fulfilling name, of JESUS CHRIST. Amen!

Much LoVe, JoY, Peace and Blessings to You, through JESUS CHRIST, our LORD, SAVIOUR and REDEEMER!