“Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.”
– Luke 1:11-13
One of my favorite Biblical examples of the power of words is found in the story of a New Testament character named Zechariah. Married to Elizabeth, he was a priest, and by the time we’re introduced to him in Luke chapter 1, he’s an old man. Though he and his wife were very much in love, they were unable to have kids, and this was a source of heartbreak for both of them. Resigned to being childless, Zechariah faithfully continued his priestly duties, and one day, after waiting for many years, he was chosen to burn incense at the temple. As he excitedly and nervously prepared to lead thousands of people in worship, he ascended the stairs and entered the room where the altar was. Without warning, he was met by the angel Gabriel, who prophesied that his wife would give birth to a son, and that his name was to be called John. Utterly astounded by this revelation, the priest, who could have reacted in surrender or even silence, responded by questioning the angel. He exclaimed, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.” Clearly not understanding who he was speaking to, Gabriel reminded Zechariah that he stood in the presence of God Himself, and that he wasn’t mincing words. Then, he shut his mouth and took away his ability to speak until the fulfillment of the promise had come to pass. Since he didn’t believe the truth that was foretold to him, the Lord thought it best he be silenced, lest his doubting words cause greater confusion. My friend, remember that anything is possible with Jesus, and let the words of your mouth reflect this truth! Though many things are impossible from a human standpoint, nothing is out of bounds for the Creator of the Universe — when He says it, it will come to pass. The best place to be is in agreement with God, and when you let your tongue affirm the power of His amazing plan, He will use you in ways that your human mind cannot comprehend. Stretch the bounds of your faith, speak that which amplifies divine potential, and you will see miracles happen in His mighty Name! |
Prayer
Jesus, fill my heart with big faith, and align my words with your perfect plan.
Reflection
If you were Zechariah, how do you think you would have responded to the angel Gabriel? Why?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
Good morning from sunny Ontario Canada
Thankyou for sharing the inspirational Word of God !
Palm Sunday is such an awesome part of the story of redemption ,so I was rather
sad to not hear a message by Bobby Schiller on it this past Sunday .
Is there a reason Palm Sunday wasn’t emphasized ?
Thankyou for emailing me the devotionals.
I enjoy the weekly services so much .
May The Lord bless you and keep you strong and well in faith and body.
A grateful recipient of God’s redemption of my soul by Grace through Faith⚓️
Susan Wiens