December 12, 2021

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Read – Read Zechariah 1:1-6

What does it say?
Israel’s forefathers did not listen to the prophets, so the Lord did to them just as their actions deserved.

What does it mean?
Zechariah was among those whom Cyrus the Great allowed to return from captivity to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The foundation was laid, but the rebuilding work had stalled for 16 years. Although they had physically returned to Jerusalem, their hearts had not completely returned to God. As Zechariah began his prophetic ministry, the Lord pointed out the consequences of their parents’ stubborn disobedience. As a result of the captivity, many of those listening had been born in Babylon. Now they had to choose whether they would follow their parents’ rebellious example or heed and Zechariah’s words. If this generation would return to the Lord, they would experience the blessings of their spiritual heritage.

How should I respond?
It’s likely that you’ve experienced the ripple effects of your parents’ choice to either follow or reject Jesus as Savior and Lord. What kind of spiritual heritage do you have? Has your family encouraged your faith, discouraged your walk with the Lord, or simply been indifferent? You have to decide for yourself whether or not you’ll choose to follow Jesus and pay attention to what God says in His Word. How might you be rebelling against something God says is wrong? Will you “return to the Lord” by submitting that part of your heart and mind to Christ right now? That kind of daily submission will help you pass down a heritage of blessing instead of the consequences of disobedience.