By Pastor Ronald Bernier, Master Builder Ministries, Fall River, MA.
Twice in five verses in the book of Zechariah the Lord declares, “Let your hands be strong” (Zechariah 8:9, 13). Sandwiched between these exhortations are the Lord’s promise for those who would endure, continuing the process already begun to build His temple. The foundation had already been laid, yet there seem to have been a hesitancy in the heart of the people. They had claimed a lack of resources, but the Lord had already rebuked them for they had a lack of focus and commitment. Now with renewed words of exhortation comes a tremendous promise:
“For the seed shall be prosperous, the vine shall grow its fruit, the ground shall give her increase, and the heavens shall give their dew - I will cause the remnant of this people to possess all these. And it shall come to pass that just as you were a curse among the nations, O hose of Judah and house of Israel, so I will save you, and you shall be a blessing. Do not fear, let your hands be strong.” Zechariah 8:12-13
Wow, do you see all the blessings of the Lord? One can see in these promises, increased salvation, fruitfulness, industry with prosperity, along with Holy Spirit anointing and enablement. The blessing of the Lord is promised so that His people would be a blessing. We are part of this same heritage. Yes, we have a work to do and the Lord is encouraging us to persevere, to strengthen our hands and walk in obedience. That is our duty. The results belong to God. May His hand be upon us to enable us to fulfill His vision and purpose.