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Do I believe what He promised me?

I am reading through “Christmas passages” this month. I should know by now not to be surprised when He goes to the issues of my heart – present tense.

It began with my simply pondering the angel that came to Zechariah (John the Baptist’s dad). It was “his turn” as priest to burn the incense in the temple. Did he anticipate an angel showing up and personally addressing a long term issue of his heart?

So, what’s the first thing Gabriel (the angel) says? “Do not be afraid” (Zechariah was TERRIFIED).  And, “Your prayer has been heard.”

I could stand to hear those words right now from an angel’s lips. I really could. More on that later.

The ONE THING that Zechariah would MOST want to hear, he heard from the mouth of an angel standing right there before his eyes. Not only a child by his aged, barren wife, Elizabeth, but a son who would be “great in the sight of the Lord.” “The prep man for the Messiah, the Son of God!”

But before he hears about God’s big Kingdom plan, he hears God’s personal affection for him and Elizabeth personally. “(This son) will be a JOY and DELIGHT to you.” Can you imagine how their hearts would swell seeing the fullness of God’s spirit in him, and God’s people returning to Him with whole hearts?

For Elizabeth, she was so HAPPY to have the disgrace of barrenness removed, and for everyone to see God’s favor on her! Did he correct her for her small-mindedness? Not in the least. God is EVER taking our personal pains, doubts, struggles and questions into His heart. (This is a statement of faith, not feeling!) Then He not only answers our sometimes VERY LONG TERM cries, but affects many, MANY other people with the revelation of Christ. We are lifted up into Kingdom significance through our weakness and His faithfulness.

YET… it was MANY of years of WAITING — even finally giving up hope. Zechariah was no longer able to believe such news, even from the mouth of an angel from God! What did he say? “How can I be SURE?” Really? That’s what you ask an angel???

I can imagine that Gabriel himself was stunned. Zechariah: this priest of God, who knew the Scriptures well, let his earthly circumstances and his own understanding trump God’s messenger! I mean, look at the history! He knew about barren Sarah. Barren Hannah. Barren Rachel. Barren Shunammite woman.

The Shunammite? I can relate. She couldn’t handle being teased with hope that may not be fulfilled. When the prophet Elisha promised she’d have a son by that time next year, she basically said (in our language), “Don’t even torment me with hope; I can’t handle the disappointment.” She had become cynical.

Yet all these words and promises came to pass, and each child fulfilled a powerful Kingdom purpose in their era and in the ages to come! He is faithful, even when we’re not.

Back to Zechariah. Stunned Gabriel reminds him that he’s God’s messenger and stands in the very presence of God in the heavenlies. More is required of this priest because he knows better. Zechariah doesn’t BELIEVE? Then shut his mouth! Well, this sure seems to be a case of the power of the tongue. God sends the best news of all. If he can’t shout it out with faith and joy and thanksgiving, then better to be mute. And think about it for a while… like 9+ months.

I’m not looking to have a child at 61 years of age. But I have received many words and promises regarding my healing, and work in the Kingdom together for Mark and me in the future. “I will live and not die, and declare the praises of the Lord.”

The Scripture says that the testing of my faith produces perseverance. What if, like the Shunammite woman, that faith seems more to wane with the very long waiting? But more has been entrusted to me than to her. Even more has been entrusted to me than Zechariah. I pray He will not have to silence me, but that I will speak anticipation and praise from a full heart — that I will not be afraid. That I will believe my prayer has been heard. And that many, many people (as has been promised) will be affected by the revelation of WHO CHRIST IS! The same compassionate, healing, redeeming Savior yesterday, today and forever. He hears my cries. But He also hears the cries of the earth for a fresh reminder of the compassion and greatness of our King. God is up to something. I WILL believe it!

– Kathy

4 Comments

  1. Thank you. A little weary of believing and trusting in the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living and – like Elizabeth – desiring redemption from what came like a thief in the night. Thank you, again.

  2. My name also is Gabriel; I also stand in His presence. And, I also believe with you! God IS up to something here. We stand with you, we cry out with you, we love you.

  3. Believing for His healing and your ability to continue to share His word and proclaim His promises! Your life has been an example to so many. Continue to live with the faith which shouts out to all of us as we see you as an example on earth of the true Christ-like woman!! God bless you! L

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