Daily Blast - Minor Prophets: Day 30
Scripture
“The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and his name the only name”
Reflection
From chapter 9 in this book, Zechariah prophesises the coming of the Messiah. As we already know, many people had varying views, and although Jesus entered the kingdom of Jerusalem as a king, He quickly became rejected by His people. However, despite their initial unfaithfulness to Jesus, God “pour[ed] a spirit of grace and prayer over them” (12:10) and the people repented.
By the time we reach chapter 14, Jerusalem had switched allegiance to and from God multiple times and was now facing attacks from other nations. Despite all the turmoil, and although the people of Jerusalem had not always remained faithful to God, God intervened and saved His people.
The message in this passage is straight forward; despite Jerusalem’s unfaithfulness to God, God was still faithful to His people. This message is something that we can take and build on today; that although we may not always be faithful to God (just remember that no one is perfect and no one is without sin), God is still a loving father who comes to our aid.
Challenge
Take courage that the Lord your God has you and will forever protect you. Although I pray that you’re never in a situation quite like the people of Jerusalem where you are quite literally under attack, it can sometimes feel as though, figuratively, you are.
Listen to the lyrics from “Surrounded (Fight my Battles)” by Michael Smith (I’ve chosen the version played by Bethel, but you’re welcome to listen to whichever one you most like!) In the song, it proclaims that “It may look like I’m surrounded but I’m surrounded by you”. These words have really connected with me, particularly at this moment in time. I don’t know what pressures you’re feeling but you might be sharing some of mine… stressing about work deadlines, comparing yourself to others, and not being able to do the things you’ve planned and dreamt about for months.
At times it can feel like I’m surrounded by all these things, that I’m being attacked from all sides. However, I take courage from the fact that God has me! God is faithful to me just as He is to you and that brings me comfort when I’m struggling.
I encourage you all to listen to this song – not least because it’s a good’un! Take comfort from it. Remember that God is faithful no matter your circumstances and through Him you can fight all your battles.