How can we encourage others to "seek the LORD of Hosts" today? Setting the Scene “ ‘Let us go at once to seek the LORD of Hosts; I also will go.’ ” (Zechariah 8:21) In Zechariah’s day, God foretold a time when people would spur one another on to pursue Him. That promise still beckons. Because Scripture is true and reliable in every detail, we can apply this verse directly to our own relationships and communities. Why Seeking the LORD Matters • God rewards those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). • He promises to be found when we seek Him with all our heart (Jeremiah 29:13). • Jesus is the open door to the Father (John 14:6); urging others to seek the LORD is ultimately inviting them to Christ Himself. Practical Ways to Encourage Others to Seek the LORD of Hosts 1. Live as a Walking Invitation • Let everyday conduct “shine before men” so they glorify the Father (Matthew 5:16). • Authentic joy and integrity create curiosity that opens doors for gospel conversations. 2. Speak Up—Extend Personal Invitations • Like Zechariah’s townsfolk, say, “I also will go.” Offer to read Scripture together, attend church with them, or watch an online study side-by-side. • Use Isaiah 55:6—“Seek the LORD while He may be found”—as a gracious, urgent appeal. 3. Gather for Corporate Worship • Hebrews 10:24-25 commands us to meet together and stir one another to love and good deeds. • A vibrant, Scripture-saturated worship service showcases God’s presence and draws hearts to seek Him. 4. Pray People Toward God • Intercede by name (Colossians 4:2-4). Ask the Spirit to unveil Christ’s glory (2 Corinthians 4:6). • Share that you are praying; it reminds them God is personal and attentive. 5. Teach the Word Faithfully • Faith comes by hearing the message of Christ (Romans 10:17). Open the Bible, read it aloud, explain it plainly. • Anchor encouragement in the promises of Scripture, not in mere opinion. 6. Serve Tangibly in Jesus’ Name • Acts of compassion validate the gospel (James 2:15-16). • When help is offered with humility, recipients often ask about the hope that motivates such love (1 Peter 3:15). 7. Model Repentance and Holiness • Transparent confession (1 John 1:9) shows that seeking God involves turning from sin, not pretending perfection. • Holiness highlights God’s majesty and makes His nearness desirable (Psalm 96:9). 8. Share Testimonies of God’s Faithfulness • “Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will declare what He has done for my soul” (Psalm 66:16). • Real-life stories make the abstract tangible and encourage listeners to seek similar encounters with the LORD. 9. Keep an Eternal Perspective • Remind one another that the Day of the LORD is near (2 Peter 3:10-12). • Hope of Christ’s return fuels a present passion to pursue Him. Walking Together Toward the LORD The residents of Zechariah 8:21 didn’t merely talk about seeking God; they traveled together to His presence. Invite others into rhythms of Scripture reading, prayer, worship, and service. Say sincerely, “Let us go at once.” Your companionship may be the very means God uses to draw them to the LORD of Hosts today. |
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