Don’t even think it

Scripture: Zechariah 7:9-10

⁹“This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. ¹⁰Do not oppress the widow or fatherless, the alien or the poor. In your hearts do not think evil of each other.’

Observation: God wants us to be truly kind to each other, considering others’ situations and being kind. And he wants even our thoughts to be pure.

Application: God doesn’t just want us to act with kindness and compassion; he wants our hearts to be true, as well. Even thinking evil is unacceptable. Gulp. So no bad thoughts allowed. If you are irritated by someone, get to the root of it and make it better. And act in kindness and love. Always.

Prayer: Lord, this is a tough lesson, even though it sounds so simple. Please change my heart when I begin to be irritated by others. Help me to be not just act in kindness, but to think in kindness as well, remembering that we are ALL your children, made by you. Guide me in seeing you in all those around me, and correct me when my thoughts move to evil ones.