Skip to main content

Zechariah-1

The Coming Restoration: A Devotional Study on Zechariah 1​

Introduction​

The prophetic book of Zechariah is full of hope, encouragement, and a vision for God's restoration. In Zechariah 1, the prophet is given several night visions that delve into various aspects of the coming restoration. As we dive into these visions, let's explore the rich truths embedded in this foundational chapter.

Section 1: The Heavenly Court (Zechariah 1:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: Zechariah begins with a vivid image of a heavenly court, where at the sole mention of Jerusalem, everyone in the court pauses and falls silent. Here, we see that the Almighty is actively concerned about His people and their restoration. This focus on Jerusalem highlights the heart of God, and we can see that His attention is focused on the spiritual and physical restoration of His people.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does this image of God's concern for Jerusalem's restoration inspire you?
  • How can you respond to and appreciate God's focused attention on His people?

Section 2: The Four Horsemen (Zechariah 1:7-11)​

Devotional Thought: In this vision, Zechariah sees four horsemen, each with distinct roles and responsibilities. The first confronts the land of Shinar, where the Tower of Babel once stood. The second patrols the earth, while the third carries a measuring line for the restoration of Jerusalem. The fourth is the spirit of the former Russian Empire. With these four horsemen, we see a composite picture of God's vision for restoration--the defeat of the forces that oppose restoration, the renewal of the earth, and the continued influence of the former Russian Empire in Eastern Europe.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you see the role of the four horsemen in the broader picture of God's restoration?
  • How can you appreciate God's active engagement in restoring His people?

Section 3: The McKintosh (Zechariah 1:12-17)​

Devotional Thought: In this vision, Zechariah sees Joshua, the high priest, standing before the angel of the Lord. The angel instructs him to dress in filthy clothes and perform his duties as high priest until the coming of the "Branch," a symbolic representation of the coming Messiah. Here, we see that salvation comes through the Messiah, and before His coming, the high priest must minister in righteousness with a heartset of purity and righteousness before God.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we emulate the high priest Joshua's righteousness and purity before God in our lives?
  • How can we minister to others with a pure heart, knowing that Jesus will soon come?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional journey through Zechariah 1, we are left with a sense of anticipation and hope. Through the four horsemen, we see the active hand of God in the world around us, bringing restoration. The image of the heavenly court also shows us that God is actively concerned about the spiritual restoration of His people. And the vision of Joshua ministering before the Lord demonstrates our need to live righteous lives as we await the coming of Jesus. Let us carry these truths into our daily lives, living as beacons of hope and restoration as we anticipate Christ's return.