Numbers 22 :21-23, Luke 1 :57-80, Psalms 58 :1-11, Proverbs 11 :12-13

What God said to me – In Zacharias’ day people were anxious – they were frightened and eager for the coming of Messiah.  I comforted them and prepared the way by answering Zacharias’ prayer and giving him a son, John.  I called John the Baptist to be My prophet to go before and to prepare the way for My Son, Jesus.  He was to declare that Messiah was coming.  He was to give the people the knowledge of salvation by My mercy and by the forgiveness of their sin when they repented.  Now fast forward to today.  You live in a similar time.  My Son will be coming again.  People are anxious – they are frightened and eager for the coming of Messiah.  Similar to the role of John the Baptist, I have called My church to go before and to prepare the way for My Son, Jesus’ return.  You be faithful to tell them that He is coming.  You tell them about salvation by My mercy and the forgiveness of sin when they come to Me in repentance.  You be faithful to warn them of what is coming and how time is running out to come to Me before it happens.  Like John the Baptist, you must live a life devoted to Me and walk in a manner worthy of your calling so you can make the greatest impact.

Numbers 21 :1-22 :20, Luke 1 :26-56, Psalms 57 :1-11, Proverbs 11 :9-11

What God said to me – Have you ever had loved ones who were going through trials or difficulties but they were far away so you couldn’t help them.  You feel so helpless because you’re not there to comfort them or pick them up or minister to them as you would if they were nearby.  It can be frustrating and frightening.  But what if they were nearby but didn’t tell you about it until it was over?  Whether it is because of pride or thinking they can handle it or not wanting to be a bother, it hurts that they didn’t turn to you for help or comfort.  What about you?  Do you not come immediately to Me because you think you can handle it, or you don’t want to bother Me?  “I AM” a refuge for your soul.  “I AM” always here for you whether it’s for something “big” or “small”.  “I AM” even here when you have “nothing” going on – come just spend time being with Me.  I have also given you brothers and sisters in Christ to build you up and to encourage you as they come along side you.  Allow them the blessing of ministering to you and encouraging you.

Numbers 19-20, Luke 1 :1-25, Psalms 56 :1-13, Proverbs 11 :3

What God said to me – I sent my angel, Gabriel, to tell Zacharias that I was going to answer his prayer and give him a son.  Not only was I going to answer his prayer, but his son would have a very special calling to ministry that would fulfill prophecy and herald the coming of the long-awaited Messiah, My Son, Jesus.  Zacharias’ response was fear and disbelief and so he was struck mute until it all came about.  The natural response to this is to say how in the world could he have encountered an angel and then not believe what he told him.  Don’t be so quick to judge Zacharias – just look at your own life.  I chose you and saved you and gave you My word and gave you My Spirit to live within you and to teach you and to comfort you.  I promised that I would work all things together for your good and for My glory yet when something happens in your life that seems bad or frightening, your first response is rarely praise or thanks or even acknowledgement that “I AM” at work.  When you are afraid you must learn to immediately put your trust in Me and My sovereignty.  Remember “I AM” for you – “I AM” with you.  Zacharias’ fear resulted in him not being able to glorify Me and share it with others.  Don’t let your fear become a hindrance to your witness.  Trust Me in your circumstances and glorify Me in everything so your faith becomes an example for others.