1. Was it for God or for yourselves? (1-10)

The people of Israel spent 70 years in Babylonian captivity. During that time they observed the 5th and 7th months with mourning and fasting. Should they continue this practice now that they had returned? God asked them a question. Were their religious activities for themselves or for God? More than superficial worship, God wants his people to administer justice, care for the weak, and live together in peace and good will. He does not want us to think evil of each other in our hearts (8-9).

2. Listen to the word of the Lord (11-14)

God said, 'When I called, you would not listen--so when you called, I would not listen.' When we ignore God's word, our hearts become hard like flint, and finally, we lose spiritual discernment. This was why Israel was sent into captivity. Now that they were home and were rebuilding their land, they must not make the same mistake.

Application: Lord, help me to obey your word until I learn your compassionate heart.
One Word: Listen to the word of the Lord