SEARCHLIGHT
Are you treating people God’s way?
SCRIPTURE
Then this message came to Zechariah from the Lord: “This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: Judge fairly and show mercy and kindness to one another. Do not oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor. And do not scheme against each other.” Zechariah 7:8-10, New Living Translation [NLT]
SPOTLIGHT
During the 1960’s, the United States was marked by economic growth and an intense time of political and social unrest. Riots spawned because of the Vietnam War, civil right causes and the environment. John F. Kennedy and many others were assassinated. The division was seen throughout the land.
A popular song hit the radio waves in 1969. It described how the world could be a better place for you, me, and others. The title and lead lyric of the song resulted from the composers hearing their mother often say, "Put A Little Love in Your Heart.” Obviously, the message of the song emphasized the need for unity and peace. (Take a moment to listen to this catchy song on YouTube) Surprisingly, the lyrics of this song correspond with today’s Scripture focus. Allow me to explain.
God gave a message to Zechariah which identified what God really values. The Jewish people had decided that doing more fasting than what God had instructed, would win the favor of God. In the first part of Zechariah 7, God tells the Jewish people that their fasting was pretentious. They were trying to impress God to gain greater blessing. In essence, they were insincere. Then God tells Zechariah to identify for the Jewish people, what He really considers to be important.
Today’s Scripture focus directs believers to do what is important to God, and not themselves. Here is a picture of the way God wants society to operate and function:
#1 Judge fairly. Always do what is right and true. Treat people the way God treats you. Be impartial. Settle disputes without personal consideration. The song says “Take a good look around and if you’re lookin’ down, Put a little love in your heart…”
#2 Show mercy. Express forgiveness. You are not better. The song says “Think of your fellow man, lend him a helping hand…”
#3 Show kindness. Express compassion. Care and concern should be evident in your behavior. The song says “I hope when you decide kindness will be your guide.”
#4 Do not oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor. Do not take advantage of people who cannot defend themselves. Express loving pity and help them. The song says “Another day goes by and still the children cry…”
#5 Do not scheme against each other. Plotting against people is evil. Do not even think that way for one moment. The song says “If we want the world to know, we won’t let hatred grow…”
What is important to God? What does He truly value? The 5 points listed above cannot be any clearer as to how God longs for people to live and treat each other. Society will flourish when people commit themselves to living by these guidelines. This is God’s way for people to live together.
It is possible to follow religious traditions without obeying Godly instruction. People can do religious activities such as attending church, or giving money, but not sincerely love God. A person can fast without practicing true love, both publicly and privately.
How something is wrapped does not show you what is on the inside. You can wrap yourself up in nice clothes, a big smile, and friendly demeanor, but still be less than what you appear to be. Are you doing what seems right in your eyes, rather than doing what is right in God’s eyes? Are you doing religious things, or are you truly worshiping God with all your heart, soul, mind,,and strength as you love your neighbor as yourself? Put divine love in your heart!
SOMETHING TO DO
Pray, ponder and practice the 5 instructions given by God as how to treat all people.
SOUL TIME PRAYER
Heavenly Father, help me to live the way You have instructed. Forgive me for doing things that are far less important than what You value. Forgive me for doing things that are far less valuable than treating people the way You desire. I am going to need your love and wisdom to love and treat people the way You long. Thank you for hearing my prayer. AMEN