On that day the LORD their God will save them, as the flock of his people; for like the jewels of a crown they shall shine on his land. Zechariah 9:16
I continue my study of the last four books of the OT (complete: Zephaniah, Haggai; to complete: Zechariah, Malachi) - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book. For today, my focus is an unassisted review of Zechariah 9:14-17, which the commentary outlines as the third of three divisions for the text 9:1-9:17 (9:1-8, 9-13, 14-17). Here, building on the previous division (see yesterday and previous day) that includes one of scripture's most well known messianic prophecies (v9), here we see a more ominous prophecy - one suggestive of Christ's return during the final days. V14 includes imagery of lightning, a trumpet sound, and marching armies. V15 shares how God will protect His people and how His people shall devour - assuming their enemies. V15 also includes how His people will wield sling stones - the same weapon David used to overcome the seemingly more powerful Goliath (see 1 Samuel 17:50). The imagery from v15 of how God's people will be "full like a bowl, drenched like the corners of the altar," is particularly ominous given the Old Testament altar was sprinkled with blood as part of offerings to God. Vv16-17 end on a less ominous note as God's people experience victory over their enemies and how this brings both glory to God and prosperity to His people.
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My Prayer: Father God, You are SO good! I know and can take comfort that You have already sealed the final victory over sin and death and You both saved me and saved a place for me in Heaven! Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving...my sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal 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. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. 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.
