Read: Zechariah 5 & 6
In chapters
five and six Zechariah continues to receive “downloads” from God in the form of
visions. We see that God is so faithful in speaking to His people, directing
and comforting them. Perhaps you need to ask God to speak to you in dreams and
visions? He still does today! In these chapters, we are first reminded that God
will judge sin – including stealing
and swearing falsely. These are serious things in God’s eyes and the size of
the scroll described, along with the reality it’s flying, likely points to the
fact that no one can hide from God’s judgment (5:1-5). We must deal with ALL
sin. The promises of God’s mercy are wonderful and He does accept a commitment
to holiness in response. Thankfully God helps us move on from sin as we see in
the giving of new clothes to Joshua (chapter 4) and now through the vision of
wickedness being carried away. Why is it carried away to Babylon? Often Babylon
represents the place of wickedness and depravity (i.e. the Harlot Babylon). One
day this vision will be fully fulfilled, and we will dwell in a place with no
sin! Aren’t you thankful?
In chapter 6
(vv. 1-8) we see chariots with horses going out, very likely doing God’s work. Why
are they different colors? This may be to represent different things that God
will do, similar to the horses and their riders in the book of Revelation. Whatever
the exact meaning, we must not lose sight of the fact that we can trust God to
accomplish His Will! This is so reassuring! Brothers and sisters, He will
complete what He has begun! Illustrating this exact point, Joshua is given a
crown to show what God will do at that moment and in the future. The throne and
temple, the kingship and priesthood, will be united (6:13). This is important
because often God’s leaders were corrupt. Ultimately, all of God’s promises
will be realized WHEN Jesus takes His rightful place as King of Kings and Lord
of Lords (as spoken of in Rev. 11:15). Of course, there are aspects of God’s
plan that are conditional (depend on us) for individual believers and people groups. For example, Joshua
is told, “this will happen if you diligently obey the LORD your God.” (6:15)
Prayer and Journaling
1. Sin
brings a curse on the earth and judgment to individuals. Both the Old and New
Testaments testify to this reality. Ask God – have you stolen anything (i.e.
movies, music, stuff from work)? Have you been swearing falsely – to family, to
co-workers, to a boss? Ask God and then repent of anything He reveals.
2. Spend
some time asking God to speak to you in a variety of ways – whether through
dreams, visions, prophecy, His Word. Remember that bigger things should be
submitted to those who are more mature and be held loosely.
3. God
will accomplish His purposes. Thank Him for this truth! Now ask him if there’s
an area you’ve been procrastinating in. Is there a place where you’re not
“diligently” obeying Him? (6:15)
