Zechariah 13
Zechariah's prophecy indicates that 2/3 of Israel will be unfaithful yet 1/3 will and it will be those who stand in the final days (see also MacArthur Bible Commentary). This final remnant will be refined as gold. In the same way, we are to be refined as we grow and mature into the disciples God calls us to be. This refinement process is difficult but produces value - for God most importantly but also for us.
This third I will put into the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. v9
Zechariah's prophecy indicates that 2/3 of Israel will be unfaithful yet 1/3 will and it will be those who stand in the final days (see also MacArthur Bible Commentary). This final remnant will be refined as gold. In the same way, we are to be refined as we grow and mature into the disciples God calls us to be. This refinement process is difficult but produces value - for God most importantly but also for us.
The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the heart. Proverbs 17:3
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we
respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of
spirits and live! They
disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God
disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems
pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a
harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by
it. Hebrews 12:7-11
We can take comfort in knowing Jesus will be with us in our trials and that is able to help us both endure and defeat both sin and death.
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33
My Prayer: Lord You are a great God, full of love and compassion for me...even though I know I am not deserving. Thank You for Your many blessings and mercy, but please forgive me for my lack of patience and anger. Help me overcome and turn from my sin and turn towards You instead. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You do. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself strength and wisdom. Please cure Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
