The Coming Messiah: A Study in ZechariahSample

What does it say?

The Lord Himself will be a wall of fire around Jerusalem and its glory within.

What does it mean?

Zechariah’s third vision was a preview of Jerusalem’s glorious future. Just think of how encouraging his words would have been at the time. Seventy years of captivity and 16 years of opposition to the rebuilding could easily have caused a defeatist mindset among this small group. God gave them a view of their city without rubble or strife. When the Lord lives among His people during the millennial reign of Christ, Jerusalem will not need to fortify her walls. His presence will be Israel’s protection and glory. The city boundaries they knew won’t be able to contain the blessings God would pour out.

How should I respond?

Scripture promises that the Christian’s eternal future is wonderful beyond description (1 Cor. 2:9). In the meantime, we live in a world full of temptation and opposition. If you shut out the world and wait for Christ’s return, you risk being so heavenly-minded that you’re of no earthly good. On the other hand, if all you see is the here and now, your days will be filled with dread. God’s promises encourage us to serve Him here, knowing that life will not always include heartache. As a believer, your eternal future starts by living daily in His presence now. Then one day, all strife will be replaced with unimaginable peace and joy.