Zechariah 7 is reminiscent of Isaiah 58, where the Lord teaches about a true fast, rebuking the religious leaders.

God questions if they were really fasting for Him. He says they ate and drank for themselves.

We don’t just fast and not eat for God. We eat for God. Whatever we do whether eat or drink, we do all for God’s glory! That’s referring to 1 Corinthians 10:31.

God’s direction is to show kindness and mercy, to make true judgments, and to not oppress the widow, fatherless, sojourner, or the poor. These, of course, have always been what God wanted from His children and still is what He wants.

The final direction is to not devise evil against another in your heart. Yes, don’t do evil against another, but don’t even think it up in your heart.

The people are described as not listening. And so, the Lord doesn’t listen to them.

God, in His anger, scattered them. It’s described that “the pleasant land was made desolate.”

What did God want from them that He was angry enough to empty the Promised Land?

He wanted them to love their neighbor as themselves.

Are you doing it or are you angering the Lord?

What does it look like?

How are you caring for the poor? We can give money to the poor, but also look for the widow and fatherless around you that you can be spending time with and investing in. Look for those struggling with money and help out. Care about others.

Giving money to the poor isn’t the same as tithing to your church. A lot of your church money is going to the building and programs that serve you. Make sure to find ways to give outside of yourself. And don’t just look for evangelism to give to. Care for the poor.

And, of course, be kind to everyone.