Return to Me

Born in Babylon during the Exile, Zechariah grew up without any firsthand experience of his homeland. Yet God gave him unusual insights into unfolding events in Israel and throughout history.

Zechariah knew that many fellow exiles had been somewhat sensitive to God’s message. They could look back and realize that their forefathers had ignored His warnings. But they didn’t seem able to grasp the warnings He had given them.

God had tried to tell them that judgment was coming, unless they repented and made changes. His message? “Return now from your evil ways and from your evil deeds.”

But they didn’t listen or change. These exiles knew that God wanted to bless His people. They just needed to “return to Me that I may return to you.”

The same message rings true today. The Bible reminds us that God wants to bless us. The problem is that, too often, we have not been good listeners. In our own ways, we have defied and disobeyed Him. We have violated His principles and ignored His warnings, and have no one to blame but ourselves.

However, there is hope if we heed this message. We, too, need to return to God.

Today, make sure that you listen to God, live according to His standards, and obey His Word. Humble yourself before Him. Pray and seek His face. Pray for your country and your leaders. Pray for a move of God’s Spirit.