Zechariah 7 - 1.10.24

Scripture

“Say to all the people of the land, and to the priests: ‘When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months during those seventy years, did you really fast for Me—for Me?" (Zechariah 7:5, NKJV)

Observation

The people of Israel had a tradition of fasting during the fifth and seventh months of the year, while they were in exile. At this point, they were back from exile. They went to the priests to ask if they should continue to observe the fast during this particular month, as they had done during the last several years. The Lord responded by asking them what the real motive for their fast was. The Lord asks, "When you fasted..., did you really fast for Me-for Me?". Why did they fast? Were they fasting because that was their custom? Or did they really fast to seek God? The Lord looks at the motive of our heart, and desires obedience. In verse 9, the Lord reminds us of the obedience he desires from us - justice, mercy and compassion to each other, and kindness to the widow and the orphan.

Application

As we have entered our annual fasting of the new year, let us ask ourselves this question, "What is the true motive behind our fast?" Are we fasting to lose weight? Are we fasting because our friends are fasting? Or are we fasting to seek the Lord's face? Let's examine our hearts, and make sure that we have the right motive that pleases God.  Whether we eat or drink or whatever we do, let us do it all for the glory of God. (1 Cor 10:31)

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for giving us a new year, and another opportunity to fast and seek your face. Help us to fast in a way that honors you and gives you glory. Help us to be obedient to you. Along with the psalmist, I pray that you would see if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting (Psalms 139:24). In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

- Asha Chacko George