Bible Reading: Zechariah 5; 6; 7; 8, Revelation 19.
Memory Verse: “Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and show mercy and compassions every man to his brother:” Zechariah 7:9 (KJV)
Judgment is defined as the ability to make a decision or form an opinion objectively, authoritatively and wisely especially in matters affecting action. When such decisions are based on the the word of God; the truth, then it is a true judgment. Similarly, mercy is forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm. And Compassion is sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.
These are what God expects true believers to have towards others. Thus, God told Israelites through his prophet what he expected them to do to others : Zechariah 7:9 (KJV), “Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and show mercy and compassions every man to his brother:” This is the expectation of God from all believers today as a proof of godliness. It is not only the level of prayer or fasting but how much you show true judgment, mercy and compassion in all your dealings with others.
As a child of God, how well do you exhibit these virtues in your place of work, home, church and other social environment. This is what shows our love for others not mere saying it. When you do not show these to others, then do not expect God to do same to you except you repent and ask for mercy. Thus God says in Zechariah 7:13 (KJV), “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:” Thus, the direct route to answered prayers is to do unto others what we expect God to do to us. Thus God spoke to his prophet in Romans 9:15 (KJV) “For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.”
Our Lord Jesus came down heavily on those who felt keeping the laws was more important than showing love through these virtues. He said in Matthew 23:23 (KJV), “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.” It is time to focus on the critical issues of life that will make living worthwhile for us all even while keeping the law.
Action Point: Examine your life and make adjustments where necessary to ensure you show love to your neighbour.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero